We flatter those we scarcely know,
We please the fleeting guest,
And deal full many a thoughtless blow
To those who love us best.

These words written so long ago by Ella Wheeler Wilcox speak to me.  They remind me to not take those I love for granted.  They remind me that it’s important to treat others with kindness.  They remind me to treat the ones I love with that same kindness.

I don’t claim to be good with words.  They usually just float around in my head.  Sometimes, though, I find the need to write them down.

Life’s Choices

Life gets so busy that sometimes we forget.
We forget that birthday.
We forget to smile.
We forget to hug.
We forget to take time for family.
We forget that those we love won’t always be with us.

If these words make you stop for even just a minute;
Then, take a minute to give a loved one a hug.
Take a minute to throw a ball with your kids.
Take a minute to call your mom or your dad or your sister or your brother.
Take a minute to really listen to those around you.
Take a minute to say “I love you”.

Such simple things; but a difference you’ll see at the end of the day.
Your dad’s eyes will light up with happiness.
Your sister will laugh at your jokes.
Your son will smile and say, “What a great day!”.
Your family will thrive.
Your heart will fill with love.

It’s not too late to break life’s busy day cycle.
Remember to share smiles with your family.
Remember to hug your kids everyday.
Remember to complain less and praise more often.
Remember to listen when someone speaks.
Remember to appreciate life.

Just a few changes and
You’ll find regrets begin to disappear.
You’ll find smiles become the normal.
You’ll find laughter rings out often.
You’ll find “I love you” and hugs are easy to share.
You’ll find your family flourishes more each day.

You can read the poem by Ella  Wheeler Wilcox in my post Life’s Scars – Poetry Potluck.