Wednesday, March 31, 2010

A Walk To Remember

Dear Friends

Today as I was at Mass I began to think of my life and all the things I have lived through...the good.the bad.the ugly. Realizing that I will 63 in a couple of months I thought to myself "am I where I wanted to be" by this time in my life?

It was a beautiful Spring day here in Morinville, very windy but sunny and I found myself wishing I had walked to church instead of driving. I suddenly had the urge to walk and to think......so I drove home and headed out for a walk.

I don't think I had ever given much thought to who I wanted to be when I grew up, I just assumed I would be a wife, mother and part of a community who had the same likes and dislikes as I did. No I didn't set the bar very high for myself did I, but the sad part is I didn't even meet this bar.

If I had made a list many years ago I am sure it would of been much different than the list I mentally made today. Mentally my list became crystal clear as I walked among the beautiful budding trees and fresh smell of Spring. I would of wanted to be the best wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend I could be. On my list I would have been kind, caring and most important non-judgemental. Sounds good doesn't it......I also realized that it is much easier to talk the talk then to walk the walk. I have become so impatient with people who speak differently than I do or believe differently or who I feel have just got it wrong. Who am I to say I am right and they are wrong....note to self: do.not.judge.others. No I do not want to lower my standards, morals or beliefs but I want to strengthen my resolve to love and understand others while standing up for those less fortunate.

Perhaps it is the Easter Season and Lent coming to an end for another year or it being Holy Week that had me deep in thought today, it doesn't matter. I only know I have so much to improve about myself so here is my list:

a) Do not judge others
b) Recognize I have much to learn....I do not know everything
c) Love always, as in turn the other cheek
d) Never laugh at others expense....remember they have feelings too
e) Appreciate everything and everyone that I have in my life
f) Never gossip/respect others always......treat others as I want to be treated
g) Always help those less fortunate - be happy that I am able too

I realized today that I have people in my life that love me no matter what I say or do. They are called family and friends. I am so thankful for so many things in my life but I am most thankful for my Faith. With Faith comes hope, hope for peace for my family, my friends and my country. Peace comes with a price, that price is called Forgiveness, without Forgiveness there can be no peace ever.......so I give thanks tonight for my beautiful day of prayer, meditation and my heart which right now is filled with love, understanding and forgiveness.......now to live this way every day will be my challenge.

God Bless...........and many, many hugs......:-)


133 comments:

Denise said...

You are precious in His eyes, and in mine.

veterankindergartenteacher said...

That is such a wonderful list Bernie. We could all benefit from trying to follow it. Blessings to you dear lady!

Barb said...

Taking stock and setting goals for ourselves is a healthy and helpful way to live. We all fall short - however, recognizing where we need to make a greater effort is the start of improvement. You did not set the bar too low or miss the bar, Bernie. I believe you have a kind an generous Spirit - it is your gift to others. Your reminders to yourself may serve us all - I know I could use improvement in all of these areas. Thank you, Bernie.

Garnetrose said...

I loved this post Bernie. I think we all often feel we are not as good as we should be in many areas. I often question as to whether I was the best wife, mother or friend. I know you did the best you could in all things and that is what counts. Denise is right. We are all precious in God's eyes.

Karin said...

I didn't go for a walk, but I have contemplated some of the same thoughts in the past month or so! God is wonderful to give us the insight in seeing that we need to accept the people we cannot change; to change the one we can and to know that that is ME! It's a good thing that it is God who decides whether or not we have met the bar HE set for us! Blessings! Have a meaningful Good Friday and a joyful Resurrection Sunday!

Irene said...

It's hard to get it right all the time, Bernie. Strive to get it right every day and be glad if you succeed sometimes at most things. If all you do is improve yourself a bit, then that's a lot too. Self awareness is a great thing to achieve, I think no God would expect more. We all do our best and survive the best way we know how. Some of us reach the top of the mountain and some of us keep climbing every day. That sets the degree to which we can be generous.

Anne H said...

You are a gentle, kind woman....I love the comments you leave on my blog...
I have all the respect in the world for you, Bernie -you are an inspiration to me - when I need it the most.
Thank you!

Maggie May said...

I think we all need to walk and think and pray......
That is what I miss most when I am not able to go out. Fresh air on my face and the chance to meditate.
A great list of things there, Bernie.
We can only try and meet them all.
Without faith it all seems impossible.
Have a good Easter.
Maggie X

Nuts in May

Anonymous said...

Hopefully we all get a little wiser when we get older.

The Bible says,
The silver-haired head is a crown of glory,
If it is found in the way of righteousness.
Proverbs 16:31 (New King James Version)

Victor S E Moubarak said...

Hey Bernie,

I do not know you; but I can tell from your writings on this Blog that you are a wonderful person.

God loves you Bernie. As I'm sure so does your family and friends.

Thank you for today's lovely post.

God bless you always.

Nikki (Sarah) said...

this is beautiful Bernie....just that you want to reach this bar is beautiful....From my heart to yours...have a happy Easter. Sarah

A Bit of the Blarney said...

How good of you to share you reflective journey with us. I am disappointed with my progress on my journey. But every time I take stock of where I am, I am never surprised at the reality of Providence in my life. God Bless you abundantly, Bernie, dear friend! Cathy

Vicki Lane said...

A wonderful list -- and though it's a well-worn phrase "Today is the first day of the rest of your life." The eternal renewal -- it's not just for Spring!

duopastorale said...

Fantastic post! Thank you for your honesty... those are all things that we should aspire to! May you have a blessed Easter weekend.

Wanda..... said...

Bernie, in my eyes you are an example for all. I believe we are always 'learning'...we aren't born who we are meant to be...we become it. Looking back, If I knew then what I know now, I would have been a been a much better mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend, but we learn these things through living our lives.

For any of us, calling to mind the disappointments, faults, and failures in our lives can give us insight into our part in them, helping us to become who we are meant to be. Forgiving ourselves is the first step in finding peace, a gift you often speak of.

Often young people, don't realize this and their feelings of quilt, big and small, override their goodness. Through your blog, young and old alike can 'learn' that happiness, contentment and peace, all start within...and it begins with 'forgiveness' of one's self as well as others.

Your list is a wonderful list... and I think you will have no problem living up to it, each and every day! ♥...Wanda

wendyytb said...

From what I read,here, Bernie, your goals are already met. You are kind and compassionate and far from critical. Sounds like you are your harshest critic!

Big hugs!

Brian Miller said...

and though we all have these lists to work on...He still loves us. have a wonderful day!

Eileen said...

Okay, I'm hoping this comment goes through.
I love your list, in my eyes you have attained those wonderful goals, but I think we know ourselves best.
Almost everyone in blog land thinks that I am a nice person, I know otherwise. I wish I could be who you people see. That is what I want to strive for, and I will make your list my own.

I loved Wanda's Birthday post, I love reading your friendship and how it has flourished. You are both great gals and I'm glad I got to know you!

I left a long comment about the political things that are going on here in the US that didn't go through, and it's just as well. It is a hot button issue in my family and circle of friends (and NONE of us were ever very political-minded before), and I see both sides have very valid reasons for the stand they take on issues. Things that are happening today are affecting the lives of those I love in very personal ways (both positive and negative).

Suffice it to say, I am going to beg my family to stay off politics for Easter Sunday dinner!
Maybe I'll copy your list and hand it out beforehand! Well, I'll at least try to follow it myself.

Love to you, Bernie!, Eileen

Wander to the Wayside said...

Bernie, from what I've seen of you thru your posts and your comments on my blog and others, I think you have already met your list standards. Everyone could use improvement, but I think you're further ahead than most of us!

Diana said...

Good Morning Bernie!
Yes it is a challenge to live the RIGHT way EVERYDAY! We are mere mortals after all! But God loves a challenge which is why he loves us! Your list of goals is a very good one Bernie. And it will be difficult. But as I read on someone elses post today, let us change ourselves first and see how things change around us! Love that. Love Di ♥

glnroz said...

a great list...Maybe by standing and looking at the bar, you don't realize how "high" you have raised and acheived it. Reckon? I bet received comments will show you that others see the "higher" you.

Anonymous said...

Dear Bernie, I only know you from your blog but I believe that you are truthful and write from your heart. Please don't be too hard on yourself. You have shown us how gracious and loving you are. I love to think about what Thomas Merton said, although I cannot quote it, I believe God is pleased with our trying. Easter week blessings.
QMM

Janean said...

bernie, such a dear and deep post.
i like your list....i think being aware of the presence of Christ continually bring change in us! He is good!!

Valerie said...

There are many ways I could improve, and hopefully I have a few more years to achieve
improvement.

Gail said...

HI BERNIE

Lovely purposeful post. :-) ANd the words "Peace comes with a price, and the price is forgiveness"!! Wow. Those words are so true and I "thank you" for sharing such wisdom this Easter season. And your list is wonderful, just like you. :-) Happy Easter to you

Love Gail
peace.....

Wanda..... said...

Hi Bernie...I just came back in, from working in the yard to fix lunch...while out there this morning, I thought of you often, especially when 'Miss Bernie Bluebird' would fly over, I named her well! Your post was so endearing to me, it just made me happy to be your friend. I worked with a smile on my face!
...♥Wanda

Anne said...

A very insightful post,Bernie. Knowing what you can do to improve your life is growth. Knowing what you want out of life and being able to change, is good.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Margie said...

Hello Bernie
Such a reflective post!
Being true to oneself is what really matters.
You are true to what your beliefs are and you are grateful for your family and friends that love you unconditionally!
That is wonderful!
Your words are very meaningful!
Thank you, Bernie.

Hugs!

Margie :)

Bernie said...

Denise, I must always keep my eyes on him........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

vkt, I am going to have a hard time following my own list, but I am certainly going to try....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Barb, thank you my dear friend for your kind words....I guess we all see ourselves differently than others see us. Have a wonderful weekend my friend.....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Oh Garnet I know I did try to be the best I could be but I also know I could of worked harder and done better but hopefully I still have time to work things out.
Have a wonderful weekend....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Karin, oh so true my friend, have a wonderful weekend....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Nora, such wise words my friend, and great advise.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Anne, you who have the courage and confidence to drive across country, fix walls and windows are my hero.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Hi Miss Maggie, I do hope you are feeling well. Our weather has been so beautiful and my walks have been so enjoyable. It is true Maggie we can think much clearly on a brisk, clear and crisp day. Happy Easter........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Thanks Ron, perhaps that is my problem I still don't have grey hair....LOL Thank you for your wise words......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Victor, thank you. It is because of meeting people like you since I began blogging that make me enjoy it so much....you have become very special to me and I will explain more next week.....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Sarah, thank you sweetie, I am wishing you a Happy Easter as well.
......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Cathy, I do think we are our own worst critic...I think God loves us just as we are.....have the happiest of Easter my dear friend.
.........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Vicki - oh so true my friend, in fact I have a wall plaque that has this quote on it......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Mike, thank you. Happy Easter to you and your family as well.
..........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Wanda, my dearest friend as always your words are so full of wisdom. I agree we learn so much from our experiences, and I thank heaven we do. I love learning new things, I always have but when it comes to learning about myself now that is a bit harder. I only know I am going to keep trying to become a better person. I have been so blessed in so many ways, I hope to bless others in my own small way.
Luv ya and big hugs to Alivia.
..........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Wendy, I kind of think you are right, perhaps by improving though I will be a bit more gentle with myself........:-) Hugs

Mary N. said...

Bernie,
That sounds like a very fruitful walk! To me, you are very, very, beautiful already but I understand that only God and you know what needs work. I love your list, these are things I would like to work on, too. I know it will take time and effort but God's grace is ample :) God bless you abundantly, Bernie! It makes my heart light when I read the comments on your blog and see how many hearts you have touched :)

Bernie said...

Brian hey I missed you on your days off. God Loves Me are pretty powerful words arent they...Hugs

Bernie said...

Oh Eileen, when I found myself getting caught up in all the rhetoric I realized I had too pull back and calm down....it isn't even my business but I do care so much for my friends to the South. I don't think politics or religion should ever come between family or friends who love each other and I was letting it effect me in ways I didn't like.
I do have a wonderful friendship with Wanda. We seem to have bonded from the beginning, she and her family have become so very special to me. I can't imagine blogging without her. The village people are all special to me.
I am wishing you and your family a wonderful Easter and I know all the angels and saints will be sitting at the table with you.
Your home is so welcoming....big hugs to Jayden and Mia....:-)

Bernie said...

Oh Linda how kind are you to say these lovely things about me, I only wish I were sweetie. I think I will be a work in progress until the day I die....Happy Easter sweetie.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Diana, I have that quote written down in my journal, I love it.
Changing oneself is hard and recognizing that I needed to change was even harder...sometimes looking in the mirror is scary.
I have been so blessed, and I will continue trying to become a better person for as long as the Good Lord keeps me here....luv ya and wishing you a very Happy Easter my friend.......:-) Hugs

Abbey's Road said...

Oh Bernie, you are so VERY wise ... I love that you took that walk to reflect on your life. I do believe, however, that you have already conquered some of those things on your list. You have helped me to see some things in my own behavior that needed changing, all in your very wise and special way. I absolutely ADORE you! Don't ever leave me ...

A very Blessed and Happy Easter to you and yours. Will you also please say a prayer for me, for resolution on decisions that need to be made? I think you know what I am talking about.

Love you much,
Abbey

Bernie said...

Glen you are one fine man, I do enjoy your comments so much, they are always so kind to me....Happy Easter to you and your family my friend.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Peggy you are so kind, I think you know me as well as anyone as I am basically the same on or off the blog. I don't know know how to be anyone else. I love how you said that God loves us for trying. Happy Easter my friend....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Janean, so true my sweet friend, Will be over shortly to read your theme for today. Happy Easter..Hugs

Bernie said...

Val, I'm sorry but I chuckled when I read your comment as I thought the very same thing yesterday.
Happy Easter my friend...:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Hi Gail, how is your back, I had ment to check on you earlier. I do hope you are well and wish you a very Happy Easter......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Wanda, I am happy knowing you are able to work outside, our weather is nice but still too wet to do much out there. You know Wanda if I were a bluebird I cannot think of any place I would rather live than in your backyard. Big hugs to Alivia and Happy Easter to you and your family, luv ya....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Anne, I am a work in progress for sure sweetie....happy, happy Easter my friend......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Hi Margie, I have missed our chats. Thank you for your kind words and sending you best wishes for a very Happy Easter...:-) Hugs

Anonymous said...

Hi Bernie!

What an endearing post...honest, candid, real!

We all need to work on not judging others, it's such an easy thing for us to just pass a quick judgment on others, so we really do have to make a conscious effort to guard against this!

good for you for making that list...the best way to accomplish anything we wish to do is to write it down first and put it before ourselves, almost like a contract with ourselves!

you should post it on your refridgerator door, and it will serve as a constant reminder to you each and every day!

they are what we should all live by....great list Bernie!

ciao bella
creative carmelina

Bernie said...

Mary, I think we all need time for reflection and we all can find things to improve on....especially me. God Bless you dear friend, and Happy Easter......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Abbey, I think you will find when I make a friend I am a very loyal friend, so no sweetie I will not leave you and of course I will pray for you and your family always as I ask for your prayers as well. Happy Easter sweetie..Hugs

Bernie said...

Carmelina, thank you for your kind words....and yes the list was placed on my fridge last night. Quite a challenge but one I can work on and learn from every day.
Happy Easter......:-) Hugs

Holly, the Old Western Gal said...

Gosh, Bernie, of course I don't know you in "real life" but I feel I can tell that you are a very kind person already, a thoughtful person, someone who is just a plain ol' decent gal -- I mean that as high praise. I think in your Book it says something about "Behold the lilies of the field..." There are some who are lilies, I think, just the quiet glue holding families and communties together -- an important job, but little fame associated with it!

Happy Easter!

Sara Diana said...

Thank you always for visiting my blog and leaving your comments, they mean alot to me.

My great Taid (welsh for grandfather) "Tom Ty Canol" (they all had nicknames in the village and his was Tom middle house) used to say that you never stop learning until the day you die.

I also live by the motto "judge not lest ye be judged"

Cindy said...

Bernie what a beautiful post, your list is wonderful, faith is everything/ To me you are the very best, I feel and hear love from you every day. I missed you too. Hugs my friend.

Bernie said...

Holly, you are very sweet, thank you for your kind words and also your wonderful pictures and post cards........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Sara, I think of you often as you are finishing up your treatment, I love to visit your blog and see how you are doing......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

cinner, I am so glad you are home but I was happy you had a wonderful time with your mom and your sisters. Happy Easter my friend........:-) Hugs

Lynn said...

Bernie, this is a wonderful list you've shared!

I know I, myself, have pondered... am I where I had hoped to, at the age I am now.. .. Sometimes it's a real eye opener..

Have a wonderful Easter Bernie!

Blessings,
~Lynn

Bernie said...

Lynn, thank you. I think there comes a time where we all re-evaluate our lives and where we are going and where we want to be. It brings out the best and worse in all of us I'm sure. Happy Easter
dear friend......:-) Hugs

Unknown said...

Bernie, I didn't read all the comments but I know everyone probably told you how much you are appreciated and have touched their life in some way even small. I just want you to know I am thankful that I met you here in blog land. I am grateful for the sisterhood we as women share and there is just a bond between sisters that can't be broken. You are a sweetheart and you always touch my heart. I am glad that I have met you! warm hugs and smiles across the miles...

ViOLETA said...

I`m so blessed and proud that i found such people like you in my life , great post today!
Happy Easter ,Bernie!!!!
Love you !

quieten said...

Bernie,
Oh my friend, you have gone much further than you give yourself credit for. You have shown kindness, compassion, empathy and caring for those you meet in person and via the "net." Your warm and gentle ways have guided many through difficult times and the light of your being has given us all something to reach out to in dark and trying times. You live your list daily and, while you may not see it, you have set your bar high and achieved your goal of reaching it many, many times.
You are an inspiration and a reminder of what we all can be to each other.
Love ya,
Quiten

Bernie said...

Linda the women in our lives are our most important relationships, women need and understand each other and they are very loyal and supportive and will never walk away from a friend in need. I have come to rely on my women friends more as I get older and I am blessed to have 2 wonderful sisters, 2 wonderful sisters in law and many women friends. They are all so special to me....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Violeta, Happy Easter my friend, may you always be as happy as you are today.....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Quieten, I had tears in my eyes as I read your kind words, you have been and are going through so much yet you still know how important it is to support and care for others. You are most unselfish person I know and I love you for it. I do hope George is doing better.....Happy Easter my friend and may it be filled with much love and happiness......:-) Hugs

The Retired One said...

Oh dear Bernie,
When I read your list of goals I immediately had to tell you that you have already met them..all of them...I can tell by your thoughts that you write all the time in your blog that you have a pure heart and so much love and respect for others...all I can say is "keep up the good work" because you are a shining example for us all, already.

I am so glad you had a day of introspection in nature. Everyone needs to do this often..it is the quickest way to enlightenment.
I just read an interview with a Buddist monk in which he reminds us to "live in the moment"..he truly means LIVE THIS VERY MOMENT.....if you are listening to the birds, truly listen...almost BE the bird...no thoughts of yesterday, no thoughts of tomorrow..just drink in the bird and his glorious voice...live the moment....
Isn't that wonderful? Mindful listening and mindful of that very moment you have here on this glorious earth.
I loved that reminder and hope to carry it with me. Often.
So, at this moment, revel in the thoughts your loving Blogger friends are sending you, including me.
Luv ya Bernie!

Bernie said...

Joan, thank you so much for your beautiful words, they mean so much to me coming from you. I do try to live in the moment and it is very, very hard......but when it clicks and all falls into place it is perfect. Love you and Happy Easter my dear friend......:-) Hugs

Anonymous said...

I really feel that you are being harsh with yourself Bernie... In the short time that I have 'known' you, you have lived up to every one of those things that you set yourself as targets. I see your posts, your comments here and on others blogs and that is why I always say that I think you are AMAZING :0)

Blessings each day said...

Very lovely thoughts and something we should all aspire to do in our lives, but whenever it feels discouraging I always remember Padre Pio's famous words..."Success, in the eyes of God is sincere effort." But it's real important to have SINCERE effort always, isn't it?

blessings in abundance on you, my friend and love to you as well,

marcy

Anonymous said...

EASTER GREETINGS FROM THE OLD GEEZER

I PRAY YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY CELEBRATING RESURRECTION SUNDAY.

HE IS RISEN!

GOD BLESS YOU, RON

Anvilcloud said...

It's really hard not to be a bit judgemental because it's natural to think we're right. But it's worth working on. Keep reminding me, will ya? :)

chasity said...

great blessings to you my dear sweet friend.
it's always a good think to think about our character and find ways to better ourselves.

have a lovely weekend.

chas

Bernie said...

ED, thank you sweetie but really I am not. Have a wonderful weekend and isn't today the day your company arrives......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Marcy I do hope the Padre is right as I do make an effort each day, not real successful though. Happy Easter my friend......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Ron, thank you and Happy Easter to you and your family as well....Hugs

Bernie said...

A/C well I think you, cuppa and your family are pretty close to perfect so it is you who should keep reminding me. Happy Easter my friend.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Chas, how are you sweetie, I have been enjoying your new blog so much. I am wishing you and your family a very Happy Easter and as always many prayers going up for Shauna and her family.....:-) Hugs

Rebecca said...

It is much easier for ALL of us to talk the talk than to walk the walk! I'm thankful that God sees all our good intentions and offers His grace and power to carry them out.

Your self-evaluation challenges me (and obviously many others) to live a life of love following the example of our Lord Jesus who went so far as to DIE --not for our improvement, but our salvation!

Eddie Bluelights said...

What a beautiful post, Bernie.
I found this very moving and you set yourself such wonderful goals in life - I love your list. What a wonderful world it would be if we all strived for these.
God bless you and a Happy Easter to you ~ Eddie (hugs)

Bernie said...

Hi Rebecca, your comment did arrive and I thank you for it.
Blogger has been playing tricks with all of us today I'm afraid.
Happy Easter Sweet Friend....Hugs

Bernie said...

Eddie, Wishing you and Maria a very Happy Easter. It is always so nice for you to stop by for a visit. Be well my friend...:-) Hugs

Debbie said...

You have a beautiful blog!! I found you through Eternally distracteds roast on Eddie Bluelights!! bEAUTIFUL post..looking forward to knowing you more!

huntedtreasures said...

Bernie,

Wanted to wish you the best and a to have yourself a great Easter! Even if I do not leave comments I am always watching your blog, and love when you visit me.

Thank You, & Hugs,

Maria & Ruth

Bernie said...

Debbie, welcome to my blog, I am so happy to have you as a follower. I will be over to say hello you to soon......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Maria & Ruth, Happy Easter to you as well my friends, enjoy this wonderful season with your family and friends......:-) Hugs

CiCi said...

You get a lot accomplished on your walks! Wow, it takes some people years of therapy to come to the kind of understanding you did on your walk. I admire your candid post and I share your ideals especially about not judging. Hugs to you.

Bernie said...

Technobabe, thank you for your visit, I knew I would like you as I love ED and respect all the people she recommends. Looking forward to reading more of your post my new friend.......:-) Hugs

Melanie said...

Sweet Bernie,
Have a beautiful day tomorrow as we remember the cross and rejoice in our risen Lord.

Bernie said...

Melanie, thank you my dear friend, I will say a prayer just for you tomorrow. Happy Easter to you and your beautiful family....:-) Hugs

Elizabeth Mahlou said...

Where we want to be and where God leads us to be can be two different things. If I had to choose, I would choose the latter.

Have a blessed Easter!

Bernie said...

Elizabeth no matter how hard I try to go my own way and do things I want to do God always brings me back to those who are in pain, sick and dying. It has become who I am I guess. Happy Easter my friend.....:-) Hugs

ethelmaepotter! said...

Dear Bernie,

"...now to live this way every day will be my challenge."

Sounds like you're up to the challenge; you may fall every once in a while - we all do, but I have a feeling you're not far from mastering these goals already.

Peace be with you this Easter weekend.

Bernie said...

ethelmaepotter, Happy Easter sweet friend......oh believe me I have much work to do to complete my list, I think I will be a work in progress until God calls me home....:-) Hugs

Country Wings in Phoenix said...

Oh Bernie Sweetie...
Happy Easter and thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart for being a wonderful friend to me. You may not realize it at times, but you are a beacon for so many of us here in blogland sweetie.

I love to come and visit, you are always there to pick me up when I am down, and you find the best in all. I love it that you call me friend, and I you.

Have a beautiful blessed day sweetie. You are so filled with his Spirit that I always leave with a "Happy Heart", and I thank you for that. You glow when you don't even know you are glowing.

I love you sweetie. Country hugs and so much love, Sherry

Simply Debbie said...

HAPPY EASTER BEAUTIFUL BERNIE,
BEAUTIFUL POST...WE CAN ALL USE A TIME OF REFLECTTION IN HOW TO BE MORE TRUE TO THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST...LIKE YOU SAID ACTION, NOT JUST WORDS.
BEAUTIFUL POST BERNIE. YOU ARE LOVED AND APPRECIATED.
THANK YOU
HUGS
SIMPLY DEBBIE

anupama said...

Dear Bernie,
NAMASTE!
Good Evening!HAPPY EASTER!
Jesus died for us so that,whether we are awake or asleepEaster gives us reason to seek happiness and live in love with one another.The great gift of Easter is hope which makes us have confidence in God!
Thanksgiving is the time,we reflect on a year gone past and give thanks.
You made me introspect,dear!
Love and Hugs,
Sasneham,
Anu

beth said...

and god bless you, bernie !
happy easter !

Sniffles and Smiles said...

If anyone already lives this way, it is YOU, dear Bernie!! Love you so very, very much...amazing how our thoughts turn to reflect upon our lives during this season...more so for me than at New Year's...think the Resurrection inspires me to think of the new creation I am and should strive to reflect...Thank you for being such a continuing inspiration to me, dear friend! I love you...and wish you the happiest of Easters!! ~Janine XO

Bernie said...

Sherry, Happy Easter sweetie, I hope you are enjoying today with your family and loved ones. ...:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Debbie, Happy Easter sweetie, I do hope you enjoy this wonderful day and all it stands for, much peace and love to you and your family.
.............:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Anu, namaste my friend. May you enjoy a day of much beauty and peace......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Beth, Happy Easter sweetie. I hope you enjoy a wonderful day with your family.......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Janine, so very true sweetie, this time of year does give one pause to reflect and meditate. One of my favorite times of year....Love you sweetie and wishing you and your family a very Happy Easter...:-) Hugs

Silver said...

I spent the whole weekend working in my garden.. it really does wonder to the soul!

love & hugs,
~Silver

Bernie said...

Silver, sounds like fun. I love being outside in the sunshine with my hands digging in the dirt or raking leaves. I love how everything looks when I am done. Many hugs sweetie.....:-) Hugs

Joanna Jenkins said...

Terrific list-- One that we can all use a reminder of on a regular basis. So glad you followed your heart and took that walk.

Happy Easter,
jj

Bernie said...

Joanna, it was a wonderful walk and I have had more since. I also had a wonderful Easter, I do hope you and your family have as well.
........:-) Hugs

Harsha said...

Live long... stay alive. Life is beautiful.

Chyme said...

I just found your blog now. And i love it. Great posts. thanks for sharing about life.

www.dreamchymecindy.blogspot.com

Katherine said...

A truly lovely post! Written with such honesty. I don't know you but the fact that you have contemplated your journey through this life & looked deep within would indicate to me that you are a very good person. I think your list is something that we all could strive to achieve. Yep..a very good list!
Thank you visiting my blog & gracing it with your presence.

veterankindergartenteacher said...

God Bless you today Bernie. I hope you had a very Happy Easter!

Lisa Smith said...

What a thought-provoking post... I think people who ask that question live more intentional l lives. When I got brave enough to ponder all I wanted to be in life, I made some changes for the better. Thanks, Bernie!!

He is risen!!
xoxo

Lisa Smith said...

Bernie, I'll be praying for Shauna but can I find her online to tell her?

25BAR said...

beautiful!

Bernie said...

Harsha, thank you my friend, many blessings......:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Chyme, thank you for your lovely visit, I do hope you come back soon, I love making new friends.
.........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Katherine, it has been a pleasure for me to visit your blog...I love reading about families and their lives. Thank you for visiting and I do hope you come back soon.
...........:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

VKT, I had a wonderful Easter weekend, thank you, perfect actually. I do hope yours was as well....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

Hello sweet Lisa, looking lovely as always. Thank you for praying for Shauna, did you get the address I sent you? Keeping you and your family in my heart and prayers.....:-) Hugs

Bernie said...

25BAR, thank you, and thank you for visiting me.....:-) Hugs

Tranquility Speaks said...

Why do you say so Bernie. For as much as I have known you through your writings, I have never felt you were judgmental or mocking others of disrespecting them. You are all good and godlike! I am glad to be able to connect to you :)

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