Do Nice Things

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, 

but they will never forget how you made them feel."

~Maya Angelou

It's easy to get caught up in the day to day. I get it, we are busy. I learned two very important things during my Bye Buy year:

1. We are not in this alone. Sure, you connect on Facebook and wave at your kids when they come in, but true connections enrich our lives. Sharing both good and bad times builds a foundation on which marriages, families and friendships are built. I am not one to share about myself. I can listen to people's problems and empathize but I seldom seek the comfort of others. Making the decision to share my year-long Bye Buy challenge opened my world up to the entire world. I even had readers in Russia. I finally discovered the value of letting others support me. In turn, I supported more. It's a wonderful pattern. 

2. The Bye Buy year made me realize that the focus of my shopoholic life was constantly seeking out what I don't have by shopping. Focusing on what I don't have. It's a very self-centered way to live, even when buying things for other people. What I had to practice was focusing on others and relationships that I DO have. Yes, I take care of myself. But when the urge hits to find the pair of shoes that will make me look young, hip and 20 lbs. lighter, I stop and do something nice for someone else. Do a chore that my husband won't have to do, mend something for my daughter, send a nice text message to a friend. 

I was brought up to do nice things but I realize that for many people, it doesn't come easy. Sure, do a "random act of kindness" but what is that exactly? For those of us that have a tough time thinking of "nice things" to do, I'll be throwing out ideas. You may not do it that day but hopefully a seed will be planted in your brain. Before you know it, the ideas pop into your head. Others will be grateful and ideas pop into their heads. Peace and love and no war. Just be nice.