I like
Charles Perrault’s stories… in the book I have they all have morals printed at
the end that get me thinking.
I always
liked this story… mostly, I think, because of the jewels and pretty
things. Thinking about it now, I like it
even more. I understand that people have the freedom to do or say whatever they
please, but being kind is always better than not.
I see this
in my own life, in my relationship with Turner. When I get tired, I get grumpy,
short-tempered, impatient, and irritable. I often say things that I shouldn’t,
or in a way that sounds worse than I meant it. Often, I find myself having to
take a step back, calm my voice, and repeat what I said, very carefully, in the
way I meant it to be heard. Poor Turner has to deal with this every day. But
when I take the time to realize what I’m doing, and apologize for my actions,
things work out.
Here’s the
first moral in my book…
Diamonds and doubloons make a more powerful
impression, but sweet words have even more force, and are of greater worth.
I think this
is absolutely true. When we see someone all decked out in a name brand designer
dress/suit, with expensive jewelry or accessories, we tend to think, “Wow,
they’ve got it made.” But if that same person comes out and starts swearing
(toads and snakes baby) they automatically appear less appealing. At least for
me… do you agree?
Next moral…
Courtesy is worth the effort it takes and
requires a little good nature, but sooner or later it has its reward, and often
when one least expects it.
This makes
me happy. When I see people with riches who really aren’t happy, and aren’t
kind, it makes me sad. But knowing that kindness and courtesy reap their own
rewards (sometimes monetary, sometimes in other ways) it’s encouraging. I think
of Christ, when He said, “Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand
doeth.” And though we should not shout about the good deeds we do, we need to
remember that the Lord blesses us when we serve and give kindness. Even a smile
to a stranger can bring us blessings, and we should have our arms open to
receive them.
I love
knowing that because God loves me, He wants
to bless me. Turner and I definitely need some blessings, and as such, have
been trying to live our lives so as to deserve them. I know we’re not perfect,
but I believe perfection comes with time (lots of time) and help from the Lord.
In the meantime, we do the best we can, and have faith that the blessings are
on their way.
Thanks for
traveling!
Gems and Gentleness,
Page
Traveler
