Jan. 8, 2014 Being the Difference

I have always thought that the desire to make a difference in the world around you was an important goal to set. However, yesterday, I was reading the cowboy ethic blog in which the author discusses "being the difference". This idea intrigued me - making a difference is a series of single and perhaps unrelated actions which will be appreciated, but being the difference entails living your life to show what you stand for. What a challenge to spend each day reaching out to others through one's example of good, solid values. This lifestyle became very clear to me today when I ran into a friend in the grocery store. We were discussing a neighbor who is very ill, and she was explaining how he was being taken care of by a number of people. She mentioned that her husband goes over to this man's house every evening to pass the time with his friend keeping him company. What a remarkable deed to do night after night to show someone how much you value him. This example of  "being the difference" is having a huge impact on both of them as one nears the end of life. I am humbled, yet amazed by his dedication to his friend! Be the difference you wish to see in the world.