“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” —William James, American philosopher and psychologist

The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give your gift away.” – W. Clement Stone

The photo today is one of the journals I make decorate with original cover designs. They are all different. I originally made these to sell and sold 2 or 3. But I like to make these so I kept on. Finally I decided to start giving these as birthday gifts to friends and neighbors. The reactions to these gifts have completely surprised me. A few have grumbled but most have been really excited and there have been many smiles and a few tears.

When I stopped being afraid that we were going to starve if I couldn’t sell my artwork and began to share my gifts freely with others my life began to change. We all have gifts to share with the world. They do not have to be tangible material gifts, but making other feel seen and appreciated in even small ways are often the greatest gives we can offer.

“For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.” —Michelle Obama

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come without leaving happier.” —Mother Teresa