I can learn from the differences I have with others.

Differences are part of the Creators gift. I am so thankful that I have been given a unique set of skills. When I think about the talents of others, I am grateful that there are so many differences in the world.

Even when I disagree with others thoughts or actions, I do not take these differences personally. I am glad there are people who experience the world in a way that is different from me. This allows people to see solutions that might be hard for me to recognize or contribute ideas that might not have entered my mind.

Because people are so different, the world is a better place. How boring would it be if everyone and everything in the world were the same? When I think about that, I can see the great beauty in the world today.

I think of myself as a child coloring a picture. Instead of filling in all the lines with one color, I use a full crayon box to draw within and outside the lines. Each color and shade, though different, adds more depth to the picture. Through choice and differences, I can create a beautiful picture.

The joy of life comes from the bright colors of our personalities and the vivacity of our hopes and dreams. Because we are all individuals, we can fill the world with choice and possibility. We can create a more beautiful world by our combined talents.

While I rejoice in the ways that I am unique, I also cherish the differences of others. Just as I want others to appreciate my value, I show that same respect by admiring other peoples differences. I know I can learn from others and I am grateful that the Creator has given me this opportunity.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1.Have there been times in my life that I have learned something from someone who is different from me?
2.Even when I disagree with others, can I learn to appreciate the value of their perspectives?
3.Am I truly grateful for all of the wonderful diversity in the world?

I am able to live my life free of anger and remorse because I choose to deal with situations as they arise. I avoid the tendency to avoid situations that cause me discomfort because I know that addressing them upfront will help me get to the source of the problem quickly, before it has time to take root and grow.

When I am hurt, I discuss my feelings with the other person involved. I am uninterested in laying blame, but I attempt to be open and honest, sharing how I feel in the wake of his or her actions. I speak out of a desire for deeper understanding and respect.

When I hurt someone else, I apologize with a sincere heart. I let go of my pride as well as any desire for revenge.

Very rarely will an issue be entirely one person’s fault. I resist the idea that the other person must approach me before I can forgive or ask for forgiveness, after all, I cannot change anyone else.

I can only take responsibility for my own actions. For this reason, I am willing to ask for forgiveness and to seek understanding, even when I recognize that the other person was at fault, as well.

If a hurt is too great or becomes too deeply entrenched, I am unashamed to ask for help from someone who is trained in helping people find peace with relationships in their lives.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1.How will I take the first step in mending a rift with anyone?
2.Do I deal with anger and hurt early, before it takes root in my life?
3.Am I willing to ask for help in my relationships if I need it?

Every time I see an opportunity to help others, I do so joyfully.

I am willing to help anyone I meet who is in need, and I do so joyfully. I consider myself fortunate to have the means to help others.

I believe that small gestures really do matter. A cathedral would be but a foundation without the blocks that give it shape. A symphony would be flat noise without the notes that compose it.

Likewise, when I act kindly or generously, I help give shape to the goodness in the world. When I assist a neighbor who’s moving furniture or when I give a cup of coffee to the homeless man on the corner, I am fully aware that I am not changing the world with my actions. And yet, I know that I am contributing to making the world a better place. After all, each gesture can have a significant impact.

I believe that giving to others not only helps the recipient, but me as well. What I send out comes back to me, ten-fold, sometimes in kind but often in a form that is different but equally valuable.

When I give generously and without expectation of fanfare, I expand my spirit and open myself up to receive much good in return.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1.Do I appreciate or resent those who need my help?
2.In what ways have I been physically, emotionally, or spiritually rewarded by helping others?
3.What opportunities to help others have I passed up because I felt the gesture was too small to matter?