Looking Outside of Myself

You’ve probably heard the expression “First World Problems.” I heard it for the first time a few months ago when I was complaining that I wish my backup camera had an automatic wiper for rain. <–seriously?! Someone should have just punched me.

I’m not going to lie..there are many days that I complain over trivial matters. However, for awhile now…I’ve been thinking quite a bit about a few things, mostly pertaining to appreciating life and being less critical.

Please note, that I am not saying that I actually do this all the time but something I’m constantly working on…is being less critical and looking outside my own “problems.” Sure,we all have our issues and deep struggles that we choose to hide behind…but at least in my case, I don’t feel they can compare.

I don’t feel that they can compare to the news that’s going on in life outside of myself. In this past week,people that surround me have been affected by things such as : divorce, death of an infant, diagnoses of a fatal disease, and bankruptcy. This is not meant as a downer post but more of a reality check.

I think if we all took just a minute to step outside our “box” and look around, we’d realize that we’re not the only ones who struggle. Life is hard, but it’s life. So, with all of that being said, I wanted to encourage the following:

*Try to do something that will lift someone up…whether it’s sending a handwritten note, saying I love you, or suprising someone with a visit.

*Step outside of your comfort zone in order to help another person.

*If you have a negative or hurtful thought regarding another…take a moment to swallow the judgement and think of how you’d rather not be judged.

*And lastly, before being overly critical about something that’s fixable, think about those who are dealing with bigger issues in life.

I am so thankful for the positive influences in my own life because they remind me to be grateful! 🙂

So…..on a happy and ADORABLE note…are you kidding me with all of this cuteness?!!

 I cannot wait to blog April + Josh’s wedding! 🙂
Catherine