Sunday, November 29, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving...



The table was set...the food was prepared...we all sat down to a table full of love and family. Thanksgiving to me is a day of reflection, one that gives me the time to slow down and realize what and why I am thankful for what I have and the people who truly make a difference in my life. This year more then ever, I am thankful for being able to put dinner on my table, a roof over my head, and clothing on my family's back. I recently took a position with the United Way and I have been awaken with the effects our economy is having on people and members within my community. I have lived in Western Washington for most of my life and to know that last year there were 700 children in my county that were homeless is shocking. It's also very humbling to go down to some of the agencies that help to support these families and see that these individuals are not much different then you or I. In fact most of these families are fully employed and just not making it by. It makes me realize that I am very lucky to have a solid ground to stand on but at the same time makes me realize that it could be me tomorrow. These are the times where we the people need to stick together and lend a helping hand.

I have found that just the smallest gesture truly makes the difference. I walked into our local food bank a couple weeks ago and a women who was in line waiting to check out stopped me to say that she loved my hair...I had to pause for a moment because I was still in an emotional distress from the site of people wrapped around a building standing in line for food. After pulling myself together, I smiled at her and put my hand on her shoulder and told her...yours too girl! That moment and small interaction made my day. It made me realize that even at the hardest moment in this woman's life she was able to pay me a compliment. Since this moment, I have made a point to reach out and smile to others and give a helping hand. It doesn't have to be a monetary gesture, it could be as simple as a compliment, a hello, or opening a door for someone else.

Today and now everyday I am thankful for the moments I have with my family, friends, and members of my community. I challenge you to make someone smile today! Not only will it make someone elses day, it will help to bring our society together and make it a better place.

9 comments:

Sarah at The Stroller Ballet said...

Hi Stephanie,
I have posted on your site before but just wanted to let you know, again, how much I enjoy your photos. I actually am now (as of this weekend) the owner of a Nikon D90. I am hoping to get involved in photography a little bit more. Any advice you have for a novice would be greatly appreciated! I also love the fact that you did a 365 day photography challenge. I am thinking of trying that myself and possibly set up a blog to do so.
Sarah
www.thestrollerballet.com
thestrollerballet@gmail.com

Organic Motherhood with Cool Whip said...

Awesome post! It is so incredible when we stop for a minute and realize how good we really have it. I can get so wrapped up in silly little things that I am anxious or upset about and to think that there are so many families and children that are homeless, orphaned, struggling with life threatening illnesses. It really puts things in perspective. You have a wonderful blog and are an amazing photographer. organicmotherhoodwithcoolwhip.com

lovemylevi said...

Lovely post, and beautiful table settings!! Following you from MBC, hope to see you at http://www.luvsjurn3.blogspot.com soon!

Amy's Journey said...

Great blog! Following you from MBC!

Amy at http://www.harvestfortomorrow.blogspot.com

Amy's Journey said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
TheAtticGirl said...

Hi there, following you from MBC Friends Following Friends group.

http://atticgirl.blogspot.com/2009/12/wordless-wednesday-smithsonian-national.html

Liz Mays said...

I can't imagine how eye awakening your position must be. You are privy to things we aren't aware of. I can imagine how extra thankful that makes you!

I'm following from MBC! You can get to my blog from my profile. :)

The Mom O Blogger said...

Gotta love your photos!! I really would like to learn how to take great pictures.

http://www.themomoblog.com

CIRCLE OF LIFE said...

stephanie love it , looks great ,, pixs look amazing what lens are you shooting with now these day;'s . love the blurry back rouns .