The other day I found myself shopping for gifts. In the midst of my shopping for others, I came upon a skirt and a dress on the sale rack that I decided to try on for myself. After having shopped around in the store for about ten minutes, I went to the back of the store to find a dressing room. At this point not one of the three sales people in the boutique had offered to help me. They found themselves too busy and engrossed in their other customers to even so much as look at me. Finally a salesperson emerged from the back of the store and offered me a dressing room. But after checking with the other sales associates, I was told all the dressing rooms had clothing in them and were in use (not a soul was in one of them-they were all still shopping). I was kindly offered the bathroom to try on my clothes. Oh this got my blood boiling and I quickly tried on the clothes and determined they looked like crap. I gathered the two items and headed out of the bathroom enraged and annoyed. Still not one salesperson even looked at me. I threw the items down on a table and marched out of the store (walking right past two sales associates who still refused to acknowledge me).
I know you could probably care less about my mistreatment at some stupid store. It's ridiculous to even mention. But, the incident illustrates not only how very much I dislike rudeness in others, but also how a little kindness could have gone a long way. A little kindness like a smile, like saying, "hello," like giving up an empty dressing room for me to quickly try on the clothes-these kindnesses could have changed my entire experience. Trust me such small offers of kindness couldn't have taken more than a second to convey. And, in return I likely would have purchased stuff and left the store satisfied and happy as opposed to red- faced and perturbed.
OK, enough of this woe is me tale. My point is, I like kindness. In particular, I like kindess because it comes in many forms. Truthfulness can be a kindness; so can encouragement, listening, support, showing interest in others, offering protection, teaching and giving something while expecting nothing in return. There are endless types of kindnesses. Some forms come without much effort, while other forms require such sacrifices as time, money and patience. But, no matter the size or the type of kindness given, we benefit both when we give kindness and when we receive it.
As a receiver of kindness, I'm a big fan of compliments. I love them. They instantly make me smile and boost my mood. Yesterday, as I was checking in at the gym, Caleb at the front desk told me he liked my nail polish. Even this silly compliment (yes, he is gay) made me happy. Afterall, who wants to have ugly nails. You laugh now, but all afternoon I felt an extra little spark. I'm telling you being kind doesn't take much, but it does a lot of good. If you think something nice about someone just say it. Sometimes we forget how important a little flattery and reassurance can be. So compliment away, but remember a compliment is only meaningful when it's sincere.
The power of kindness cannot be overestimated. I realize being kind is not always so easy. We at times become self-centered, lazy, tired, pre-occupied, bad-mooded and even robotic in our daily lives. We simply forget to use our manners or become frustrated, dejected, or solemn. When things go wrong in our own lives we can lose our ability to care. But, we've all got to try harder and to remember that doing a kind act or saying a kind word may not only get us out of a moody funk, it may also positively change someone else's mood too. Saying "thank you," opening a door for someone, or even complimenting someone's nail polish can go a long way. Kindness breeds happiness, likeness, confidence, producitivity and all things we need to thrive. What's there not to like?
In case you didn't get the message...I like kindness.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Lindsay Likes...To Say I'm Sorry!
Before I write anything else, I want to apologize for failing to entertain my vast audience over these last two months! I've been shorter on time, beaten down from working and just plain old tired. But, I will attempt to get back into this hobby of mine. I'm sorry for disappointing my followers and friends. Lately, people have been asking me what happened to this blog of mine. Well, it's not going away and I hope you will forgive me for leaving you hanging. Please check back soon for my latest Lindsay Likes entry!
Lindsay Likes to say I'm sorry.
Lindsay Likes to say I'm sorry.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Lindsay Likes...The Color of My Bedroom
I'm a fast walker. I usually eat breakfast in the car. I'm often thinking about multiple things at one time. Almost everyday I have some sort of a "to do" list. I sometimes have trouble falling asleep. I tend to be on the move. You'll rarely find me at home on the couch. Even when it seems there is little going on I end up busy doing something. Bottom line- the things I do, I like to do well, and I like to do a lot of different things. But here and there I really love to slow down. However, sometimes I have to be reminded to bring it down a notch, to calm down, to relax, to breathe, to let things go until tomorrow and to just be.
I know you're wondering what I'm talking about. How does any of this relate to my liking the color of my bedroom? Let me try to explain. Some years ago while celebrating my birthday in Austin I had the extreme privilege of getting a massage at the incredibly fabulous Lake Austin Spa. That place is heaven, but that's another story. Anyway, while waiting for my massage I sat in this perfectly serene room filled with comfy chairs, chilled water with lemon, beautiful books and a portrait worthy glow of light reflecting off the lake and the trees. But the one detail of this great relaxing room that I was quickly drawn to was its color. Both gentle and exquisite and soft and refreshing, the blue shade drew me in and captivated me. I instantly felt at ease. I wanted to create that same peaceful feeling at home. After a few phone calls I found the key to serenity-Benjamin Moore Summer Blue.
The other details of how my bedroom changed overnight from tan to summer blue I'll leave out, but let's just say I now have my own private quiet retreat. I like the color of my bedroom because it invites me into a place I so often need to find. A place where I can let all of the little things go and I can unwind. You see, I'm not one to live passively. Even when it appears that I'm just sitting somewhere, I'm usually either intently listening or silently thinking. Certainly I'm no genius, but my mind is the kind that doesn't like to rest. Couple this wandering mind with the fact that I like to be on the move, and you start to see why I need some relaxation in my life.
I like the summer blue color of my bedroom when it calls out to me, "Settle down!" I like the way the walls look when I turn on only the lamp in my bedroom. There's this indescribable energy and if I sit quietly I can hear the rippling waves of the ocean or even see the sky with its thick puffy clouds happily moving about. The images, all shadows of blue, call out to me, "Stop thinking so much. Stop doing so much." Just be. Believe me I can be happy this way. I don't need to be always on the move, I just simply forget to slow down.
When we think too much and do too much we start to forget the basics. We make plans for things that are supposed to happen that never do. We overlook things that are right in front of us. We plan instead of react. Sometimes each of us needs a little reminder to change our thoughts, to put insignificant things aside, to take a minute, an hour or a day and to live a bit slower. For me, I need to remember to stop and to look at the serene walls in my bedroom. Calm down. Slow down. Look around and see what's there.
I like the color of my bedroom.
I know you're wondering what I'm talking about. How does any of this relate to my liking the color of my bedroom? Let me try to explain. Some years ago while celebrating my birthday in Austin I had the extreme privilege of getting a massage at the incredibly fabulous Lake Austin Spa. That place is heaven, but that's another story. Anyway, while waiting for my massage I sat in this perfectly serene room filled with comfy chairs, chilled water with lemon, beautiful books and a portrait worthy glow of light reflecting off the lake and the trees. But the one detail of this great relaxing room that I was quickly drawn to was its color. Both gentle and exquisite and soft and refreshing, the blue shade drew me in and captivated me. I instantly felt at ease. I wanted to create that same peaceful feeling at home. After a few phone calls I found the key to serenity-Benjamin Moore Summer Blue.
The other details of how my bedroom changed overnight from tan to summer blue I'll leave out, but let's just say I now have my own private quiet retreat. I like the color of my bedroom because it invites me into a place I so often need to find. A place where I can let all of the little things go and I can unwind. You see, I'm not one to live passively. Even when it appears that I'm just sitting somewhere, I'm usually either intently listening or silently thinking. Certainly I'm no genius, but my mind is the kind that doesn't like to rest. Couple this wandering mind with the fact that I like to be on the move, and you start to see why I need some relaxation in my life.
I like the summer blue color of my bedroom when it calls out to me, "Settle down!" I like the way the walls look when I turn on only the lamp in my bedroom. There's this indescribable energy and if I sit quietly I can hear the rippling waves of the ocean or even see the sky with its thick puffy clouds happily moving about. The images, all shadows of blue, call out to me, "Stop thinking so much. Stop doing so much." Just be. Believe me I can be happy this way. I don't need to be always on the move, I just simply forget to slow down.
When we think too much and do too much we start to forget the basics. We make plans for things that are supposed to happen that never do. We overlook things that are right in front of us. We plan instead of react. Sometimes each of us needs a little reminder to change our thoughts, to put insignificant things aside, to take a minute, an hour or a day and to live a bit slower. For me, I need to remember to stop and to look at the serene walls in my bedroom. Calm down. Slow down. Look around and see what's there.
I like the color of my bedroom.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Lindsay Likes...Having More Than One Side
I still hear the words and want to laugh. "I always liked to vacuum in the nude." Imagine my surprise when the nearly ninety year old woman sitting next to me at a dinner party decided to share this intimate detail with me about her life. Such images came to my mind and still do when I recall this. Although I didn't know every detail of my table companion's life; I certainly hadn't pegged her as the free-spirit nudist type. People really can surprise you!
I know as people get to know me they are sometimes surprised. I've been called "conservative," "a sweet nice girl" and even "a goody-two shoes." Some would probably describe me as serious or shy while others may say...well I won't speculate. The truth is I may be all of these things at times but I'm so many other things as well (except I've never claimed the goody-two shoes label-I think the person that told me that was actually saying it in a mean way). Sometimes it's interesting to hear what others portray me as because I often feel like I'm always evolving and always trying to figure myself out.
Without giving my inner-most personality traits away-if you're so curious get to know me better, I'll let you in on a few little glimpses of me. Although I would describe myself as an independent person, when I'm around my family I tend to quickly become "the baby" again. While one day I may be driving a rental car in Malibu or exploring the neighborhoods of New York City alone, the next day I may be tagging along with my Mom at the grocery store while she asks me what she can make me for dinner. I can be such a grown-up yet even a minute later become this silly childish girl. I promise I've been to Law School and learned to handle myself in the professional world, but I can still talk like a baby on command. I can put on my serious work face but I can also laugh for endless amounts of time over unexpected funny noises or stupid stories from years ago (like the time some of my high school friends left a shot-out old wheelchair on my front porch that they had found on the side of the road).
And yes I may be sweet and nice, but I can also be tough. I prefer to be friendly and easy-going which I usually am, but when the occasion calls for some toughness I'm not afraid to speak my mind. I'm normally even-tempered but when something gets me going, I have trouble letting it go and will breathe fire until I get it out of my system. I'm no pushover. I've got a voice deep within me and I have some hidden muscles so BEWARE!
Also, let me be clear. I like school, I like to read, I like jeopardy, I like to learn-but I love to have fun. I like beer, wine, vodka, champagne and those delectable minty mojitos! I like as you've heard to host parties and to entertain. I enjoy traveling, decorating my house and playing with furniture and accessories and I love fashion and art. I'm up for the occasional day at the pool with SPF 80+, I like a random bowling night here and there or mini-golf. Concerts are great, plays, museums, hanging out on my patio with friends and even taking a hike. I could go on and on but I'm giving away too many future Lindsay Likes topics. My point is that I have more than one side.
Just when you think you know someone you learn something new about them. Although sometimes our first impressions are correct so often people are not what they seem. We all stereotype even without realizing it. Sometimes in a big crowd this is the easiest way for us to find someone to befriend or to seek out for a certain purpose. But once you start asking questions or spending time with a person in different settings you see stuff and you learn stuff about them you never knew. I really like getting to know people and seeing what they are all about. I not only like that I have more than one side but I like when others do too. It makes things interesting. Some depth in people is a good thing. You hang out with them for a while and you learn things, sometimes even things about yourself.
I like having more than one side.
I know as people get to know me they are sometimes surprised. I've been called "conservative," "a sweet nice girl" and even "a goody-two shoes." Some would probably describe me as serious or shy while others may say...well I won't speculate. The truth is I may be all of these things at times but I'm so many other things as well (except I've never claimed the goody-two shoes label-I think the person that told me that was actually saying it in a mean way). Sometimes it's interesting to hear what others portray me as because I often feel like I'm always evolving and always trying to figure myself out.
Without giving my inner-most personality traits away-if you're so curious get to know me better, I'll let you in on a few little glimpses of me. Although I would describe myself as an independent person, when I'm around my family I tend to quickly become "the baby" again. While one day I may be driving a rental car in Malibu or exploring the neighborhoods of New York City alone, the next day I may be tagging along with my Mom at the grocery store while she asks me what she can make me for dinner. I can be such a grown-up yet even a minute later become this silly childish girl. I promise I've been to Law School and learned to handle myself in the professional world, but I can still talk like a baby on command. I can put on my serious work face but I can also laugh for endless amounts of time over unexpected funny noises or stupid stories from years ago (like the time some of my high school friends left a shot-out old wheelchair on my front porch that they had found on the side of the road).
And yes I may be sweet and nice, but I can also be tough. I prefer to be friendly and easy-going which I usually am, but when the occasion calls for some toughness I'm not afraid to speak my mind. I'm normally even-tempered but when something gets me going, I have trouble letting it go and will breathe fire until I get it out of my system. I'm no pushover. I've got a voice deep within me and I have some hidden muscles so BEWARE!
Also, let me be clear. I like school, I like to read, I like jeopardy, I like to learn-but I love to have fun. I like beer, wine, vodka, champagne and those delectable minty mojitos! I like as you've heard to host parties and to entertain. I enjoy traveling, decorating my house and playing with furniture and accessories and I love fashion and art. I'm up for the occasional day at the pool with SPF 80+, I like a random bowling night here and there or mini-golf. Concerts are great, plays, museums, hanging out on my patio with friends and even taking a hike. I could go on and on but I'm giving away too many future Lindsay Likes topics. My point is that I have more than one side.
Just when you think you know someone you learn something new about them. Although sometimes our first impressions are correct so often people are not what they seem. We all stereotype even without realizing it. Sometimes in a big crowd this is the easiest way for us to find someone to befriend or to seek out for a certain purpose. But once you start asking questions or spending time with a person in different settings you see stuff and you learn stuff about them you never knew. I really like getting to know people and seeing what they are all about. I not only like that I have more than one side but I like when others do too. It makes things interesting. Some depth in people is a good thing. You hang out with them for a while and you learn things, sometimes even things about yourself.
I like having more than one side.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Lindsay Likes...Celebrating Birthdays!
The cake or cupcakes sit in front of me. Candles twinkle vibrantly casting a perfect happy glow. There's noise all around and people's faces too. Usually a camera flashing from some unbecoming angle. And before I know it, the moment comes and goes. I inhale and exhale and attempt to extinguish the candles all while making a wish for the year ahead. Despite the noise, the song, the smiles and the camera flashes all around me, in my tiny space it's quiet for a split second as I ceremoniously become a year older.
I adore birthdays. I really love them. Yes, I know each birthday brings with it advancing age. And, I see too how quickly the years can pass by. Seriously, wasn't it just yesterday that I turned 16. It seems like only a moment ago I walked into the large room full of family and friends to yells of "Surprise, Happy Birthday!" I can hear the mariachi singer with his incessant chorus, "Lindsay, Lindsay, Lindsay, Lindsay...." (If you were there I bet you still remember too!) If I concentrate for a minute, I can also conjure up memories of my 6th birthday sipping lemonade while dressed in my Mom's clothes. That was the year of the tea party/dress like Mommy theme (Mom is always pretty creative.)! But, with each birthday comes a celebration-a happy feeling of joy and of excitement for you never know what the next year may bring.
Birthday dinners, birthday parties, birthday surprises--I look forward to them months in advance. You see I like to celebrate birthdays not just observe them. I often start discussing what flavor of cake I want in January (when my birthday isn't until April). I'm 28 years old and I still like decorations on my cake, birthday napkins and balloons. Of course I love a good party too. As a child I was a big fan of swimming parties and thought the bingo/cookie decorating party was pretty exciting too! These days, I like to get friends and family together to celebrate with a few drinks. However, I refuse to allow my Dad to ever purchase even one tequila shot again! There's a picture I could insert here from my 24th birthday but I have a reputation to uphold and I doubt you want to see me with a green looking face! But, the point is to me, a birthday is something to celebrate and I like to do it right.
Maybe I'm a bit spoiled, even a little immature, but birthdays should be celebrated with some sort of fan-fare. This doesn't mean I demand a surprise trip to Las Vegas (although that sounds great) or two dozen specially picked roses (I'd be happy with one), but I do insist on making my birthday unique from all the other days of the year. For me it's important to set the day apart and to celebrate. With the celebration comes so many happy things-laughter, family, friends, cake, cards with nice messages, and if I'm lucky a sip or two of cold bubbly champagne.
I like celebrating birthdays!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Lindsay Likes...To Entertain
The two most important tips to entertaining at home: stash away all crap and always present food and/or drinks in a pleasing manner. My Mom taught me these vital entertaining lessons by example. Growing up as one of Mom's party apprentices has really had its benefits. Sure, sometimes I wanted to scream as Mom ran around the house doing such crazy things as emptying trash cans in bathrooms no guest would ever use, picking up stacks of papers and tossing them into very random closets or feverishly vacuuming the carpet in an off-the-beaten-path bedroom. Together with my Sister and my Dad, I sometimes stood back in amazement and even in a bit of fear as Mom did her last minute "quality control" checks around the house just before guests arrived. But, Mom can't be stopped. No matter the occasion or the crowd, if Mom's entertaining, everything has to be just so. Anything worth doing is worth doing well. Maybe that's why every time I get ready to have people over, I find myself doing the exact same things as Mom. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Mom not only taught me how to entertain, but also instilled in me the importance of careful preparation and of attention to detail. For example, it's always best to make a "to do" list the night before any event you are responsible for, whether it be at your home or at another venue. The use of sticky notes may also be helpful to jog your memory in the midst of any last minute chaos. For holiday dinners, set the table the night before, clean any glasses looking dirty or dusty, move in or out chairs and tables, pull out the necessary serving pieces and always review your menu to make sure you haven't forgotten anything. Just when you think you have things all ready, there's probably something you've forgotten. At 2AM just as you're leaving the kitchen, leave yourself a big note with underlining saying something like, "Lemons, Pick up cake, Flowers." Oh yes, the list never has just one thing on it!
I know what some of you who know me are thinking. When do you host these dinners that I'm not invited to? Don't worry you weren't given a social cut, although I love to entertain, I've yet to master the art of cooking. My Mom and my Sister have spoiled me by preparing me tasty meals and by always asking me, "What do you want me to make you?" Although I think I do know how to cook (I even make somewhat decent things from time to time), I prefer to let others with more savvy and skill make the food. But, with all the years I've spent watching others cook and for even serving as my sister's sous-chef here and there, one of these days I will come out of my shell and just maybe even like to cook.
I like to entertain even if I don't prepare all the food or host big dinners. Especially, I love filling my house with friends and family. I like when everyone comes together to kick back, have some drinks and share some stories and laughs. In my house, like my parents', the main goal of any party is fun. In fact, when I look back on my childhood some of my best memories are from get-togethers with family and friends-for Valentine's Day, Halloween, Fourth of July, Birthdays, Anniversaries and Graduations. In our old house on Blue Sage, I remember sitting on the sun room floor on Valentine's Day eating Nomad pizza with family friends; I remember covering the kitchen floor with newspaper and spending hours carving and decorating pumpkins (with Dad's help of course) with a slew of family and friends. As we got older, Mom and Dad graciously hosted graduation parties for both me and my sister. By entertaining, whether for four people or 100, you provide a perfect place for people to have fun, to interact with other people, and to make memories.
My style of entertaining may not find it's way into Martha Stewart Living nor lend itself to the fanciest or the most exciting parties, but my style is mine. I love to find fun and exotic candy at World Market when I have people over (www.worldmarket.com/). I then come home and place the different sweet treats around in small bowls. I'm also a fan of putting out snack foods like popcorn and goldfish. When possible, I like to have some sort of unique drink. But, I always always have flowers or even a flower somewhere in my house. They add a little pop and sophistication to what may sometimes appear to be a juvenile spread (well except for the alcohol usually on hand). Certainly I know there's lots for me to learn about entertaining (especially the part about cooking), but thanks Mom for teaching me pretty much all I've got to know. Hmm...that reminds me, after having people over last night, I better go move the half-dead plant I left hiding in the laundry room!
I like to entertain.
Mom not only taught me how to entertain, but also instilled in me the importance of careful preparation and of attention to detail. For example, it's always best to make a "to do" list the night before any event you are responsible for, whether it be at your home or at another venue. The use of sticky notes may also be helpful to jog your memory in the midst of any last minute chaos. For holiday dinners, set the table the night before, clean any glasses looking dirty or dusty, move in or out chairs and tables, pull out the necessary serving pieces and always review your menu to make sure you haven't forgotten anything. Just when you think you have things all ready, there's probably something you've forgotten. At 2AM just as you're leaving the kitchen, leave yourself a big note with underlining saying something like, "Lemons, Pick up cake, Flowers." Oh yes, the list never has just one thing on it!
I know what some of you who know me are thinking. When do you host these dinners that I'm not invited to? Don't worry you weren't given a social cut, although I love to entertain, I've yet to master the art of cooking. My Mom and my Sister have spoiled me by preparing me tasty meals and by always asking me, "What do you want me to make you?" Although I think I do know how to cook (I even make somewhat decent things from time to time), I prefer to let others with more savvy and skill make the food. But, with all the years I've spent watching others cook and for even serving as my sister's sous-chef here and there, one of these days I will come out of my shell and just maybe even like to cook.
I like to entertain even if I don't prepare all the food or host big dinners. Especially, I love filling my house with friends and family. I like when everyone comes together to kick back, have some drinks and share some stories and laughs. In my house, like my parents', the main goal of any party is fun. In fact, when I look back on my childhood some of my best memories are from get-togethers with family and friends-for Valentine's Day, Halloween, Fourth of July, Birthdays, Anniversaries and Graduations. In our old house on Blue Sage, I remember sitting on the sun room floor on Valentine's Day eating Nomad pizza with family friends; I remember covering the kitchen floor with newspaper and spending hours carving and decorating pumpkins (with Dad's help of course) with a slew of family and friends. As we got older, Mom and Dad graciously hosted graduation parties for both me and my sister. By entertaining, whether for four people or 100, you provide a perfect place for people to have fun, to interact with other people, and to make memories.
My style of entertaining may not find it's way into Martha Stewart Living nor lend itself to the fanciest or the most exciting parties, but my style is mine. I love to find fun and exotic candy at World Market when I have people over (www.worldmarket.com/). I then come home and place the different sweet treats around in small bowls. I'm also a fan of putting out snack foods like popcorn and goldfish. When possible, I like to have some sort of unique drink. But, I always always have flowers or even a flower somewhere in my house. They add a little pop and sophistication to what may sometimes appear to be a juvenile spread (well except for the alcohol usually on hand). Certainly I know there's lots for me to learn about entertaining (especially the part about cooking), but thanks Mom for teaching me pretty much all I've got to know. Hmm...that reminds me, after having people over last night, I better go move the half-dead plant I left hiding in the laundry room!
I like to entertain.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Lindsay Likes...Trying to Make a Difference
Every time I throw trash away I picture it clogging up sections of the Earth. I see the piles of flattened junk, the putrid food, the countless trash bags of all shapes and sizes and I start to get a little nervous. The images hit me with a powerful surge of urgency imploring me to act-to help. I try to recycle even when it's not convenient. Rinsing out plastic containers, bringing home empty bottles of water and hauling heavy recyclables out to the big blue bin in my alley, recycling requires dedication and vigilance. Sometimes, I reach under the sink for a paper towel and quickly pull back my hand thinking again of all that paper weighing down the Earth and falling into the Sea. When I can, I beg my family members to think before they use. Stop with the paper plates, the red cups, the water bottles, the rolls of paper towels and the excessive use of shopping and grocery bags. Recycle! Think. Believe me I'm not the most eco-friendly person around. But, I try. The small things you do can really add up. http://www.reuseit.com/
Besides trying to think of the Earth, I try to think of other people. No, I'm not a perfect "do-gooder," I know from time to time I hurt people's feelings, say the wrong things, act lazily and think selfishly. I give people "what the hell" looks and I've even been told I intimidate (I know I'm such a imposing figure!). But, as much as possible I try to live my life in such a way as to make people's lives better. I've found that the simple act of listening goes a long way in that regard. Not only listening in private conversations, but also staying in tune with all that goes on in the community. By listening and then by learning what our friends, our family and our community truly need we are better able to help them. Actively keeping our ears and eyes open, we are more inclined to think of others and more aware of how we can make a difference. Personally, I've found the easiest way to make a difference is by using the words "thank you." Throw in a little smile and mix in a "please," and you just might make someone's day. It's really that simple.
I know all this sounds cheesy but it's the little things that really do make a difference. I'm reminded of a penny contest in high school. Each class had a week to collect pennies to be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation for a Christmas toy drive. http://www.wish.org/ When the week ended and the plentiful jars of pennies were counted, the school had raised hundreds of dollars. Nearly worthless coins alone, together the pennies became a meaningful gift. Every tiny bit we give, be it our time or our money, does some good.
Personally, I know I do not do enough good. I get busy, tired, unmotivated and caught up in myself. There are endless demands as well as endless opportunities beckoning each of us in all directions. What's more, considering the incredible need in the world, even when we try to help it's easy to feel overwhelmed as well as unhelpful. Where does one begin? What can I, just one busy person, do to make a difference in this crazy world? For me, I know that in the scheme of things my actions may go unnoticed, they may not move mountains, but I like to think they do make a small difference. Why not try to do something rather than worry that it will not be enough?
Believe me there are countless ways to help improve our world. Need some inspiration? Search online for volunteer opportunities in your community or check out the NBC Nightly News segment, "Making a Difference." http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/ Remember even the smallest acts help. Don't let this busy world overwhelm you, take a minute. Slow down. Think. Try. You'll make a difference-to someone, to something, to yourself. As a wise man told me today, "To help others is to help yourself."
I like trying to make a difference.
Besides trying to think of the Earth, I try to think of other people. No, I'm not a perfect "do-gooder," I know from time to time I hurt people's feelings, say the wrong things, act lazily and think selfishly. I give people "what the hell" looks and I've even been told I intimidate (I know I'm such a imposing figure!). But, as much as possible I try to live my life in such a way as to make people's lives better. I've found that the simple act of listening goes a long way in that regard. Not only listening in private conversations, but also staying in tune with all that goes on in the community. By listening and then by learning what our friends, our family and our community truly need we are better able to help them. Actively keeping our ears and eyes open, we are more inclined to think of others and more aware of how we can make a difference. Personally, I've found the easiest way to make a difference is by using the words "thank you." Throw in a little smile and mix in a "please," and you just might make someone's day. It's really that simple.
I know all this sounds cheesy but it's the little things that really do make a difference. I'm reminded of a penny contest in high school. Each class had a week to collect pennies to be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation for a Christmas toy drive. http://www.wish.org/ When the week ended and the plentiful jars of pennies were counted, the school had raised hundreds of dollars. Nearly worthless coins alone, together the pennies became a meaningful gift. Every tiny bit we give, be it our time or our money, does some good.
Personally, I know I do not do enough good. I get busy, tired, unmotivated and caught up in myself. There are endless demands as well as endless opportunities beckoning each of us in all directions. What's more, considering the incredible need in the world, even when we try to help it's easy to feel overwhelmed as well as unhelpful. Where does one begin? What can I, just one busy person, do to make a difference in this crazy world? For me, I know that in the scheme of things my actions may go unnoticed, they may not move mountains, but I like to think they do make a small difference. Why not try to do something rather than worry that it will not be enough?
Believe me there are countless ways to help improve our world. Need some inspiration? Search online for volunteer opportunities in your community or check out the NBC Nightly News segment, "Making a Difference." http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/ Remember even the smallest acts help. Don't let this busy world overwhelm you, take a minute. Slow down. Think. Try. You'll make a difference-to someone, to something, to yourself. As a wise man told me today, "To help others is to help yourself."
I like trying to make a difference.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Lindsay Likes...To Write
In first grade, my teachers tried to correct the way I held my pencil. I never could figure out how to gracefully grasp the pencil between my long skinny fingers the "right way." As a result, I developed a callus on my finger. It's still there today, because I still hold a pen in a very contorted manner, using all of my fingers. Somehow, despite the use of my entire hand to write, I managed to get through college and even law school handwriting everything but my papers. How funny to think that I actually prefer handwriting over typing considering my "deficiency." Even though I may hold my pen incorrectly; I seem to get the words onto the page just fine.
When second grade came, I struggled learning to write in cursive. I'm talking a major struggle! I ripped holes in my workbook pages from all of the erasing to the point I had to scotch tape the pages back together. Although I improved with lots of practice, I've spent the majority of my years printing rather than using cursive. My printing may not be perfect, but when I put my mind to it I sort of like how my handwriting looks.
Fast forward to the fifth grade. After taking a spelling exam to gauge my spelling level the first week of school, my English teacher, Mrs. Waldo, informed me I'd be in the regular spelling group opposed to the challenge group. This irritated me. If I had only had the chance to study the words before the test, I could have done better. Despite my quiet demeanor, I went up to my teacher and told her to let me try the challenge group. I can't remember exactly what Mrs. Waldo said, but I do remember that at the end of the year I had scored at least 100% on every challenge spelling test (this was back in the day of bonus points)! Eighteen years have passed and my spelling is neither inadequate nor flawless, but I still like a challenge.
Although I like to write, I'm challenged by the process. Taking the jumbled thoughts in my mind and forming them into ideas and then organizing them into sentences and paragraphs requires me to think deeply, to ponder and to analyze. Once I get an idea I find that it often marinates in my brain in some far-off corridor waiting for all the pieces to come together. Then, just as I'm finally putting my head down to sleep at night, my idea grows into something more comprehensible. I'm forced to turn on the light and write down my thoughts that now seem so much clearer. Why this must happen between the hours of 12:00AM and 2:00AM always baffles me. Never do I have such thoughts when I first wake up-I'm from a long line of night-owls.
So why do I enjoy to write? I see it as a means to share with others a fact, a point of view or a feeling. But, more than anything, I see writing as an outlet-a kind of storage facility for one's thoughts. I often find myself thinking about something, whether it be analyzing (or in my case often over-analyzing), processing, remembering, contemplating or questioning. It's sometimes nice to transport those thoughts to a place where they can be less of a "headache."
But, for me, writing isn't all about clearing my head. I like to write because it suits me. My soft voice impedes me from being a great orator. Trust me, my voice is more likely to put people to sleep than it is to inspire the masses. I'm not exaggerating when to I tell you that at least once a week I answer the phone and the caller says, "Did I wake you?" Not to mention my days reading out loud in Ms. Barrow's 12th grade English class. My friends Richard and Andrew feigned sleep and burst out in yawns the entire time I read (although coming from them I knew it was just another friendly joke at my expense)! Somehow, despite my vocal shortcomings I've managed to deliver several speeches over the years, to speak out in law school classes, to conduct meetings and to present legal arguments. Still, I know my words resonate better on paper (or the computer screen).
Finally, writing appeals to me because as a writer we're allowed to be a different version of ourselves. We so often will write what we will not say. As writers, we are more daring, more heartfelt, more creative and more cruel people. That being said, in a society where many people communicate by email and text more than by word of mouth, we have to choose our words wisely. Sometimes, too, we have to speak out, even if we would prefer to sit back quietly.
I like to write.
When second grade came, I struggled learning to write in cursive. I'm talking a major struggle! I ripped holes in my workbook pages from all of the erasing to the point I had to scotch tape the pages back together. Although I improved with lots of practice, I've spent the majority of my years printing rather than using cursive. My printing may not be perfect, but when I put my mind to it I sort of like how my handwriting looks.
Fast forward to the fifth grade. After taking a spelling exam to gauge my spelling level the first week of school, my English teacher, Mrs. Waldo, informed me I'd be in the regular spelling group opposed to the challenge group. This irritated me. If I had only had the chance to study the words before the test, I could have done better. Despite my quiet demeanor, I went up to my teacher and told her to let me try the challenge group. I can't remember exactly what Mrs. Waldo said, but I do remember that at the end of the year I had scored at least 100% on every challenge spelling test (this was back in the day of bonus points)! Eighteen years have passed and my spelling is neither inadequate nor flawless, but I still like a challenge.
Although I like to write, I'm challenged by the process. Taking the jumbled thoughts in my mind and forming them into ideas and then organizing them into sentences and paragraphs requires me to think deeply, to ponder and to analyze. Once I get an idea I find that it often marinates in my brain in some far-off corridor waiting for all the pieces to come together. Then, just as I'm finally putting my head down to sleep at night, my idea grows into something more comprehensible. I'm forced to turn on the light and write down my thoughts that now seem so much clearer. Why this must happen between the hours of 12:00AM and 2:00AM always baffles me. Never do I have such thoughts when I first wake up-I'm from a long line of night-owls.
So why do I enjoy to write? I see it as a means to share with others a fact, a point of view or a feeling. But, more than anything, I see writing as an outlet-a kind of storage facility for one's thoughts. I often find myself thinking about something, whether it be analyzing (or in my case often over-analyzing), processing, remembering, contemplating or questioning. It's sometimes nice to transport those thoughts to a place where they can be less of a "headache."
But, for me, writing isn't all about clearing my head. I like to write because it suits me. My soft voice impedes me from being a great orator. Trust me, my voice is more likely to put people to sleep than it is to inspire the masses. I'm not exaggerating when to I tell you that at least once a week I answer the phone and the caller says, "Did I wake you?" Not to mention my days reading out loud in Ms. Barrow's 12th grade English class. My friends Richard and Andrew feigned sleep and burst out in yawns the entire time I read (although coming from them I knew it was just another friendly joke at my expense)! Somehow, despite my vocal shortcomings I've managed to deliver several speeches over the years, to speak out in law school classes, to conduct meetings and to present legal arguments. Still, I know my words resonate better on paper (or the computer screen).
Finally, writing appeals to me because as a writer we're allowed to be a different version of ourselves. We so often will write what we will not say. As writers, we are more daring, more heartfelt, more creative and more cruel people. That being said, in a society where many people communicate by email and text more than by word of mouth, we have to choose our words wisely. Sometimes, too, we have to speak out, even if we would prefer to sit back quietly.
I like to write.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Lindsay Likes...An Introduction
Where do I begin? That's always the hardest part of any new venture. I guess you're probably wondering where I came up with this idea, and why on earth anyone but my mother would want to read about my "likes?"
The idea for this blog came to me suddenly the other day. I must confess the lightbulb went off in my head about the time my manicurist, Biv, started applying the second coat of nail polish to my mini-sized fingernails. Lately, like many of you, I've found myself surrounded by an excessive amount of negativity. Watching and reading the news, struggling with the job market and hearing stories of woe; I often lose track of all the positive things around me and in my life. With so many extraordinary people, places and things in this world it couldn't hurt for us to spend a few minutes here and there focusing on what we like. When you stop to consider your list of likes, no matter how great or few, you instantly feel better (at least I do)!
So why should you be interested in my "likes?" My goal is not for you to get to know me better or for me to tell you what you should like. Rather, my hope is that by sharing my "likes" in a light-hearted and hopefully entertaining manner, you'll be inspired to focus on your own favorite people, places and things. By concentrating on the good, I believe we do more good- not only for ourselves but for others.
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