A Thoughtful Thursday

I wanted to share a quote I heard last week from the film critic Roger Ebert’s new book.
After recently learning about all the hardship he has endured facing cancer, which resulting in him losing his entire bottom jaw, his statement really stuck with me. 
   Although he is unable to speak and can only communicate by either writing or by entering words into a computer, which in turn reads aloud his typed words, he still has such a powerful presence and outlook on life.  

“We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try. I didn't always know this and am happy I lived long enough to find it out. “

I just love this statement.
Its says so much.

Someone contributed much joy to my crazy world filled with sick kids this morning….

My sweet friend Val brought me a random thoughtful package.
”Just a little thank you,” she said.

The words in her card made me tear up.
”Thank you for being the second mom to my kids while I work.
I admire your organization, cleanliness, creativity, willingness to help, your energy
and LOVE.
I truly believe you are a beautiful mom, wife, friend, sister and sitter on the inside and out.
You deserve a Starbucks everyday!”

Seriously?
To read words like this are so encouraging and wonderful.
Especially when I am in a line of work that sometimes seems so under appreciated our in society.

So thank you Val for making me smile, on a day that I know was so sad for you.
Brightening my (pity party for being sick and having sick kids) day.
Reminding me of what kind of friend and person I always want to be.

A person just like you.
Someone that chooses to spread JOY.