SEEK HELP

 From asking for help to complete a goal to seeking help when we need it most, we have to realize when we can't do it alone.  A family member, a  friend, or a professional may be necessary.  Of course, we want to feel that we are strong, independent, and capable of solving our own problems, but we all need help sometime.  If we continue to struggle on our own, the situation may get worse.  Another person's perspective can make a big difference.

We may tell ourselves: I should be able to do this by myself.  I'm embarrassed to reveal my problem.  I don't want to burden anyone.  Procrastination may make things worse.

Part of love is helping each other, to give and take.  If we ignore our problems or just try to endure the consequences, we are missing the chance to share our lives with others and deepen our relationships. 

ENABLING

From helping someone toward positive behaviors to enabling someone to continue negative behaviors, we have to consider how much responsibility we have towards others.  When a loved one shows signs of needing help, we may be able to influence and guide them toward a better life.  Of course, every adult has the freedom to live their own lives, but if poor choices are having negative consequences, we may need to offer assistance.  If our assistance is refused, we may have to resort to the tough love approach.  If we don't try to help, we will be enabling them to continue their pattern of behavior.

Various messages we give ourselves may delay our decision to help: It's none of my business, They may consider it interference,  Our relationship will suffer.  When we listen to these excuses, time may make the behavior even worse.  

Part of love is wanting a good life for others.  When we see a problem and ignore it, we are missing a chance to show our love.  
 

DEMOCRACY

The legislature branch passes the laws.  The judiciary branch interprets and the executive branch implements.  The three branches should have equal and balanced powers as they represent all citizens.  In order for democracy to survive, the executive branch should not overpower the Senate, the House, and the Supreme Court.  Our two party systems should consider what is best for all citizens and compromise when advisable.

  

  

 

PERSUASION or SEDUCTION

 When persuasion becomes seduction, someone else's needs may overpower our own.  Sometimes we need to be persuaded to improve our life, to consider other opinions, then judge to change or not.  Sometimes we need to resist seduction, use our logic more than emotion.

Seduction can come from someone we know personally, a charismatic influencer, or advertising.  The term seduction often refers to a person using their sexual charm to create or increase physical activities.  A sexy appearance, touch, and words appeal to the emotions.  Other behaviors throughout the day can add to the loving feelings.

We can be seduced in many ways not having to do with sex: giving loyalty to undeserving leaders,  believing false promises, buying unnecessary products and services, consuming food, beverages, and other substances which may be unhealthy.

Seduction can create a short-term reward which can end with reality and a lesson learned OR it can lead to love that lasts a life time. 

    

WELCOME

We all want people in our lives, our world, and our homes.  Get to know each other through conversations, spending time together, and visiting our residences.  This is how we welcome someone.

Making others feel comfortable around us is the first step to friendship.  Have balanced conversations, enjoy each others company, learn about tech other, and invite them into our homes.  Making our home comfortable to guests is the second step to friendship. Of course, our home and furnishings must function well and make us feel comfortable.  Then our guests should feel comfortable and learn more about us as our home reflects our values, personalities, and hobbies.  It often contains reminders of our  past but should have room for the future.   

Just as we get first impressions of a person when we first meet them, we get first impressions of a person's home when we first visit.  Put out the welcome mat and make your guests feel comfortable.

DON'T CHANGE

Resist change that is not beneficial to you and those you love.  Your peer group, your culture, and anyone trying to manipulate you to change just for their benefit may not have your best interests in mind.  You have created your path throughout your life, making both wise and unwise decisions.  Appreciate the wise decisions, forgive yourself for mistakes, and go forward.  

Don't stubbornly cling to outmoded or ineffective  opinions and behaviors.  Think out of the box, keep an open mind, and consider other options.  Discover the reasons you agree or disagree and weigh the benefits or drawbacks of change.    

To help your thinking, talk with trusted friends.  Be brave to change or not to change.  Choose your own path.  

CHANGE

Progress requires change.  If you like the way things are and don't want change, progress may come to a standstill.  If you have more confidence in past decisions, future improvements may become impossible.

Some people advise to think out of the box, consider many ways of doing things.  This can be difficult if that box is your closed mind.  Comfort frequently comes from keeping things the same; the familiar has served a purpose and seems more satisfying.  Change seems unnecessary, even risky.

Sometimes an outside influence, a fresh set of eyes, can get you going.  Be brave; consider other options and open that box of possibilities.  Change.