“Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.”
― Anne Lamott
As we hustle and bustle through our daily lives we often think that we are just doing what everyone else does. But here is the thing, that isn’t necessarily true. If you watch the news, if you travel through life, if you pay attention to what is going on around you – not everyone is doing what needs to be done. Some are busy with blame, hatred, feat, ignorance, and neglect. Some add to the chaos and make life way more complicated.While others put one foot in front of the other each time with the intention to do good, to create good, and exude good because they care not only for themselves, but for their community, for others.
Many of the recipients of holiday cheer have said they don’t deserve to be honored for doing what they should be doing. Obviously I disagree. The world around us is wrapped up in giving media attention to blame, hatred, feat, ignorance, and neglect. Anger and bitterness are encroaching on too many hearts. However, I know if our focus shifts to good and our thoughts shift to good then so will our actions. There is no doubt in my mind that this is true. So this holiday cheer is my small contribution to helping the world be a more positive, kinder place.
Today’s recipient is the embodiment of what is right in the world. Jenny was also nominated by Shirley. I know two Jenny’s nominated by the same person – what are the odds?
Shirley wrote to me the following about Jenny:
“I’d like to nominate my pastor’s wife. She is a mama of four, one of which has Downs Syndrome. She’s also an international student mama of a girl from Japan. Jenny Fitzgerald is an amazing woman who always gives of herself, but rarely does anything for herself. She is there for all of us in our tiny congregation no matter the day or the time. She is a pure example of a giving soul.”
Jenny, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being you. For caring for others and opening your home and your heart to those who need it. The world truly is a better place because you are in it. Our simple gesture does not match what you do everyday, but hopefully it brings a smile to your face.
Happy Holiday Cheer to you,
The Cheer Squad