“Spirit within me”

           spirit-within-me.jpg

Picture courtesy of my dear friend Ceeque (Charles)

I invite all to join together with me. A group of friends doing our part to make the lives of others better. With every act of kindness, we do in fact make the world a little bit better. We do this simply because we can, because we care about others, all others people all people, we care about the world.

I once heard what I consider to be a very good definition of insanity: “Doing the same thing, in the same way over and over again and still being upset or disappointed when the results come out unchanged.” This applies to our very lives, if we day after day continue to do the same thing, in the same way, how can we expect there to be any change. Change of any sort must begin from within, within each and everyone of us. As people change, so will the world.

I invite and encourage all to join my very non-exclusive group of friends. All are welcome, no restrictions of any kind.. So in that regard I have set up this new page title “Spirit within me”. The word “me” should be read as applying to each individual and definitely not me, as in Bill. It represents the spirit contained with each of you. I hope people will join in and take membership in the group as a serious commitment.

OK, what is the group about. It is just a group of friends joining together to try in any small way to bring about changes within themselves, within the lives of others and ultimately to the world.

Is there a cost to belong to this group? YES, but not a monetary cost. The cost is something much more precious that mere money. The cost is spending some of your precious time. How much time? Five minutes a week. I don’t care how busy anyone’s life is, there is no one that can honestly say they couldn’t squeeze in 5 minutes a week. How is that 5 minutes of precious time to be spent? Actively looking for and performing an extra act of kindness. It is to be preformed for another, to whom doesn’t matter, the size of the act doesn’t matter. What matters is that we all take the time, even just 5 minutes a week to look for a way to perform an act of kindness.

Second, requirement. If any thanks is offered we decline to accept it. Instead state only that the only thanks you require or request is that this person, repay you by passing on another act of kindness be passed on to yet another. Think of the ripples we are creating.

Benefits, unlimited, gained from the peace and love to be contained within our hearts. That warm fuzzy feeling that comes from knowing I did something good, not because I had to but simply because I wanted to.

Please join my group of friends.

84 Responses to “Spirit within me”

    • Jean Ferguson says:

      May God bless your life as you influence the lives of others. Great idea!

      Jean Ferguson

      I hope if I am influencing lives it is in a positive way. Blessings to you and yours.
      Bill

    • Ashley says:

      Thank you so much for sharing you most inner thoughts while going through your journey into a new life. I lost my father a year ago tomorrow to brain cancer and reading your blogs helps me comes to terms with what he went through. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

      Ashley

    • sherrie1974 says:

      I want to thank you for writing this journal. You are helping many people in the same situation fight. I recently lost the love of my life after 22 years. I struggle each day to keep moving forward. I pray for you and your family.

  1. Mel says:

    *looking for the pen*

    *scribbling on the dotted line*

    😀

  2. Sage's mommy says:

    Signed,

    Bill’s daughter:

    ~ Billie ~

  3. ceeque says:

    Totally in and signed up with this utterly great idea! What a great way to put this idea across, happy to be a member.

  4. mel says:

    Checking in, sir!
    But I’m crediting you with the idea. After reading your post of the George Carlin email I decided it was way past time to meet and greet the neighbour who’d moved in last fall.

    So, I did!
    WITH a pie–cuz I can make pies without burning down the house. LOL

  5. Jo Hart says:

    Ok I am here on this one too. Thinking of what this weeks 5 minutes will be???????

  6. A sweet five minutes for certain! What wonderful ripples these will be for everyone.

  7. liezel says:

    long awaiting a group like this… this is what I live by everyday.

  8. Sillygeuse says:

    Pay it Forward! I live by this principle as much as possible, and yet, I find that there are many souls out there who will ungraciously abuse those of us who do. It amazes me the number of selfish people out there.

    Now I must state that I feel you’ve already given your five minutes by hosting this group. What a wonderful way to connect with others and secure a sense of accountability. Well done! I am even more pleased that I stumbled across your blog!

  9. mel says:

    More participants! YEAH!!

    And this week’s five minutes–a ‘stop and converse’ thing at the grocery store.
    Okay…doesn’t sound like much–but you haffta know how much I detest grocery stores for this very reason! I’m a ‘go in, get it, get OUT’ kinda gal. And this time I stopped to converse with one of the gal’s on the block that’s been having a tough go since her husband went home to G-d.
    AND we’re gonna have coffee this week, too!

    Actually, I feel really good about this one….cuz it meant giving up selfish little MEMEME time!

  10. Henri says:

    Time’s a gift to be used on earth

    In preparation for eternity

    And what we do within it’s span

    Determines our soul’s destiny

    Sign me up 🙂

  11. Autumn says:

    Bill, I’ve been a little MIA blogreading-wise of late, hoping to be back completely asap and to catch up on posts that I have missed. Am very glad that I passed by today and saw this one.
    Sign me up please. 🙂

  12. I am here, please sign me up.
    This was a very good suggestion
    to do this. Love to be a member in
    this.

    In Inspiration,
    Ulla H 🙂

  13. Roads says:

    Please count me in, Bill. And spirits up.

  14. Mel says:

    (((((((((( Henri ))))))))))))

    Aren’t you just a wise one!
    Thanks for putting that up for me to read, Henri.
    Sometimes things fall out of this ‘too full’ brain!

  15. Ron says:

    Awesome idea, Bill!!!!

    Please consider me a WARM FUZZY member!

  16. enreal says:

    This is a wonderful task Bill! You are doing a very good thing…or should I say “we”

    Namaste

  17. lwayswright says:

    This is fabulous. Random acts of kindness! One thing I always try to do is to take my grocery cart to the cart return thing at the grocery store. Sounds corney or simple but here in Phoenix when it is 110 the clerks who have to walk through the parking lots to round them up really appreciate that simple little thing. it’s amazing the thank yous I get for that little thing. Ilove this idea. Good one. Consider me one of the group!

  18. Lori says:

    I’m in what a great idea Bill. You are a wonderful man and I hope to have some of your greatness rub off on me 🙂

  19. lymeaway says:

    Wow Bill what a great idea, I know I try to do acts of kindness, such as a hold the door for people or let someone on the road out in front of me, but it is amazing to me how many people probably do not do things like that because of selfishness or because they are in a rush. This is a wonderful idea! SIGN ME UP!

    ~ALI

  20. Jenny says:

    Pay it forward. I have tried for many years to live my life with this principle and hope that I have succeeded.

    Great idea, and only 5 mins!!

    Sign me up please.

    Jenny

  21. Lonnie says:

    These are the words my cardiologist gave me after he asked me if I was being a better person with my second chance ”some day you will be asked for help, God wants you to give it freely with out question and your debt will be payed”. I have a mission to do good with my second chance.
    God Bless you,
    Lonnie

  22. Jo says:

    Jo Hart Says:
    June 27, 2008 at 6:05 am edit

    Hey Bill & Billie,
    My Random Act of Kindness. I sponsered two children who are Autistic to attend there annual camp. It’s through the the Rotary Club. It just so happened they rang yesterday at work, as work every year sponsor two children. I added my own and sponsered another two, so 4 children got to go away, and hopefully have a little bit of happiness. I did specify that the children know that it was from Billie all the way over in Canada….. I did explain the Random Act. So thankyou Billie, two littlies are going to be very happy.
    Hope you had a great birthday Billie.

  23. Mel says:

    Mel Says:
    June 26, 2008 at 4:13 am edit

    <– packed up boxes of kitchen ’stuff’ for a family that’s the victim of the flood and have it in the car to deliver tomorrow

    But! In honour of Billie–there are flood clean-up tubs that are premade for the donation. I’ll make the donation in her name tomorrow.

    *sigh*
    It’s such a mess over here–and I can’t think of a more loving thing to do at this moment.

    Happy Birthday to Billie!
    And what a special gift you brought to the world, Bill…..and continue to bring…
    And I ain’t just talking the kiddos, either.

    *hugs!*

  24. coloredmind says:

    colouredmind Says:
    June 30, 2008 at 5:51 am edit

    What a wonderful idea. In honour of the birthday girl when I saw two cold homeless men today in my very small town I bought two take out cups of tea and gave it to them, they looked so pleased to have something warm to drink. I think this is something I am going to try and do more often. Hannah x

  25. Irene says:

    Dear Bill,
    Just have a few minutes to drop you a line to say Hi! and to wish Billie a great, big Happy Birthday. My random act was to help a collegue pack away her classroom at the end of the year. That felt really good and it was done in honor of the birthday girl…Thinking about you often, Wiseman.
    Irene

  26. Marita says:

    Dear Bill

    I’m with you, you’re with me. I do a Buddhist meditation every day (tonglen) that sends good energy to everyone, for healing, comfort, upliftedness, regardless of belief or any other criteria.

    Marita

  27. Kathy Brunner says:

    Sign Me up….
    KB+

  28. Juanita says:

    I want to thank you for helping me want to go on living. Your words, on this site, has done more for me than anyone. From your words I have been given hope, encouragement, and love. I had forgotten that there were loving people in the world, but more than anything I had forgotten I was one of them. Thank you for giving me back my life. You will always be one of my hero’s and always in my prayers.

    Dear Juanita, I thank you so much for your so kind comment. I feel very honored indeed. If my words help you or anyone, then it makes all my time spent sitting at the computer so very worth while.
    I believe the world is just full of good and loving people, I know you are one of them. Give yourself the credit you deserve and possibly spread some of the goodness around.
    As I said I am honored at your comment and thank you so much.

  29. Estrella says:

    Firstly, I would like to say that you are an amazing writer and God has truly blessed you with a gift of being able to touch the souls of your readers. This is done by your bravery in telling the truth about life and its great encore, death. The title of your blog is “A Dying Man’s Journal,” but it is my belief that you can quite possibly cure your body of its illness with a holistic approach(along with God’s amazing power.) It is the belief of many scientists and medical practitioners that the body is a functioning machine, designed by God not to break down and self destruct, but to run efficiently and healthfully if we just fuel it correctly. Many of the common illnesses people have can be cure holistically. I had cancer as well as a bad heart and through following an all natural plant based diet was healed. Go to this website: http://www.drmcdougall.com and read what the doctor has to say. He does not try to sell anything or have this website for his personal gain, but hopes that people learn more about how to take the healing process out of the insurance companies/medical practitioners hands and put it back into the patient’s hands. He belives that diet, one consisting of heathy, natural, healing foods such a vegetables and starches like potatoes can cure almost any infirmity. Please keep an open mind. I tell you this not to try to sell you a product or promote any personal interests… I just wanted to to share with you that you can heal yourself without the expensive medical bills and frequent doctor visits. Read his arguments for a low fat, animal food-free lifestyle and also read the Star McDougallers testimonies. You will be amazed at the power that cleaning your body of toxins and eating health promoting foods will have on your body and your heart. By having a vegan lifestyle your body WILL heal itself. Please consider what I am saying and keep an open mind. Dr. McDougall is also open for inquiry as well as myself. God’s blessings and I hope you consider what I have written here. It is possible that you may change this to a “Living Man’s Daily journal” with God’s grace and the utilization of “medicine” that God put upon this Earth for us but many of us have forgotten to use… healthy foods, sunshine, exercise, and happiness.

  30. Sister Julie says:

    Dear Bill,

    It’s been too long since I stopped by to say hello and see how you and Vi are doing. My apologies. I love this column that you have created. You’ve always been a great proponent of random acts of kindness — I learn much from you.

    Blessings to you, Vi, your family, and blog community.

  31. Charlene says:

    Hi Mr. Bill,

    I have just read a few of your blog entries and the comments that some of your faithful followers have written and I am so happy I happened to stumble into your blog. Personally I was (am) afraid of death hurting when I go, not necessarily dying. See, my mother passed away Sept. 4, 2004 and we buried her on Sept. 11, 2004.

    The thought of death did not bother me until after my mom passed because we were so close. I thought that my mother and I would grow old and die together even though she was 31 years older than me. Silly I know but I did. She was my everything. I am embarrasted about that because God should have been my everything but was not. My mom was my everything.

    I was told on several occassions that “I was grieving to death” but I just couldn’t get off the dang merry go round of fear and regret and sorrow until after I got into the word. Believe it or not, my son was born at 7 months gestation and had to live at the hospital for about a month before he was able to come home. I believe that God was in total control of this because 1) My husband and I was not using any protection for eight years, and then all of a sudden I became pregnant after I gave up control over my life to God 2) I was grieving terribly over my mom 3 years later even after receiving mental help 3) My daughter was losing her mom 4) My husband was losing his wife 5) Even though I was walking around, my family was losing me 6) If God did not see fit for me to get pregnant I think I would still be on that road to death.

    God has brought me a long way and reading I was thinking that even though God has brought me this far and will not leave me that how blessed I was in finding your blog. God bless you and your family and readers of your blog

  32. Charlene says:

    Even though I was long winded and rambling, my point was that even though death is in all of our futures, it is how you live your life, how your thoughts affect your mood, etc. I feel I was the living dead because of my out look on life. I recently ran into one of my mother’s friends and she commented how different I looked now than I did a few years after my mother passed. She commented in all honesty that I looked “baaaaadddd” Her emphasis, not mine. God was my life changing answer. I was reading your blog for wisdom. I found it in your words and your readers comments. To you all, Thanks.

    Welcome to my site, I thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. You really said it all in your comment: “that even though death is in all of our futures, it is how you live your life, how your thoughts affect your mood, etc. I feel I was the living dead because of my out look on life”. That is so well put.
    I am glad you found your way through your grief, it is such a terrible thing to have to deal with. Welcome back to the land of the living.
    Please stop by again
    Bill

  33. pamela says:

    reading this is comforting to me. i have faced a lot this past year with death.. death in a matter of weeks, and other life changing experiences leading to not have those 5 minutes. You are exactly correct and an inspiration to all!!! Stay Positive!!!! I believe our lives are determined by our outlook. I haven’t read any posts yet except 9/17/08… i just want to say enjoy nature.. go on a picnic… as i have started to mellow this year after everything… i am finding many things can be explained in nature (a park..woods) when there is no one around. Enjoy the Fall it is truly beautiful!!!

  34. Sharon says:

    Bill

    I keep popping up in the most peculiar of places and POP, here I am again. Sign me up, if only more people thought the way you do…..

    love

    Sharon xx

  35. vicki says:

    “Beam me up Scottie”
    I’m in 🙂
    Vicki x

  36. Quiet says:

    I’ll join too. Thanks for the reminder. Thanks for your blog as well.

    Welcome, glad to have you on board

  37. myway says:

    I stumbled on this in a different way. And I am proud to say a great big thanks, to YOU!!!. I have always felt that one act of kindness passed on will be repaid more than 3 fold. And I too have always felt that if one person DID pick up ONE piece of litter, etc; recycled one bottle, or “save a plastic tree” (my favorite saying at the local market as I refuse the plastic bag), will have great impact on this nation. Keep up the work and I will try to come back when I find some time. A big heartfelt THANKS again to all the LITTLE people that just Keep DOING what comes NATUREally to them!! and a big thanks to TamiSpencer who I was searching for and found you all. ……….myway

  38. Dan says:

    Hi there,
    I want to send a message to say “Thank You” for the time spent posting your journal on the net. I am 37 and was diagnosed with terminal cancer in July. Although much time has been spent trying to slow down the progression of the disease, chemo and radiation has left little space for soul time. I was just writing in my own journal about what to do with all that lies between now and that final day when I realized that the time in between is really all anyone has. Everyone dies and the moment we are born we grow closer to that final day. The answer to life is what you do with the time in between. I have felt so lost with what to do and how to cope and that is why I am so glad I found your web journal. Family and friends have asked for a Christmas list and an act of kindness will make the perfect gift for anyone!
    Sincerely,
    Dan

  39. Steve says:

    A challenge to do for others what they can’t return to you is accepted. Last week we visited with some residents ( some feel they are prisoners) of two nursing homes. we also took some of our excess clothing to a local shelter. I felt better, but realize that is only a token effort. Most of my time and resources are spent on myself, my family and friends. I will attempt to do something meaningful on a weekly basis.

    I have had two melanomas that thankfully hadn’t spread. That brought me closer to the reality of death, but for the present I have been spared. I am more aware now that I must make each day count. Even though I am aware, I don’t do a very good job of using my time wisely. Your blog is the encouragement that I needed to do better this year.

  40. Diane B. says:

    I’m in. Sign me up.

  41. Heidi says:

    I hope this takes my html display of affection for you blog. If not, it will look like gobbledegook so you could follow this link instead…..http://www.colourlovers.com/palette/657762/A_Living_Man

    Color by COLOURlovers

  42. Denise says:

    Count me in! I too suffer from congestive heart failure and partial complex seizures so I can relate to knowing our days are numbered, but I know it is He who does the numbering. 🙂

    Blessing you abundantly Bill!
    Jeremiah 29:11

  43. richard says:

    The Spirit within us is the most profound discovery anyone can make. I was driving to work this morning after my metitation and was looking around at people and what was going on. It dawned on me how everyone I saw was working, moving and just going through another day. My GOD, I thought, I have been doing this my whole life, no wonder I have had such a screwed up life. I never even realized that I never stopped to look at life with all its glory, beauty and abundence, I was just surviving day to day.

    My new plan for today is I will look at all the beauty in this world and express more love to my fellow man/women than I ever have. I love all of you and I hope we all wake up to the promises of GOD and take full advantage of these promises.

  44. Gerald Tumbling says:

    Don’t die god has more plans for bump what the doctor says in the name of jesus just call on the name of th e lord and see won’t he give u a miricle god bless u.

    Gerald Tumbling

  45. I can appreciate joining this group.I am a single Gramma raising four grandchildren alone.
    At times I have almost caved in, then a small miracle happens!
    No one came forward to assist in raising them, and I did’nt want them separated from each other so now we are together, living in happiness, and we are all learning daily niceties, not because we have to because we want to.
    I have seen and been part of the wellness, they went through.It has’nt been easy, tho the rewards are many.
    The Creator,God has been in our lives, and we know from doing good deeds we are rewarded.
    I was feeling very depressed a few years ago, and I wondered what my obituary would say one day.
    Since that time my life has been uplifted, and happiness reigns, and you can bet, my obit will be long!
    I traded in my singledom, to totally commit to my grandchildren, and I see everyday the impact I have had on them. My Children are my everyday flowers, thank-you for being able to talk about this.I hope all has a great day!

  46. Molly says:

    I’m in. 🙂

  47. Cat says:

    Count me in!

  48. Michelle says:

    I,m in.God bless you.

  49. Amy Klinka says:

    Hi Bill,
    I would like you to listen to the song Finally Home
    by a group called Mercy Me.
    You can find it on you tube. It’s very nice.
    Keep the faith…
    Amy

  50. Jaymie says:

    Jaymie Thorne on the dotted line. Blessings to all!

  51. BILL, I DESIGNED A PIECE OF ART FOR YOU AND YOUR BLOG,IT IS CALLED THE JOURNEY HOME I HOPE YOU LIKE IT. FROM ONE SOUL TO ANOTHER WITH LOVE…..”G”

    I popped over to your site and saw the picture. It is beautiful. I would be honored it you would allow me to cope it and post it here. May I copy it an post it here? Not sure how to even do that, instructions would be appreciated it it is OK with you.
    I thank you so very much.
    Bill

  52. OH YOU CAN FIND IT ON MY BLOG!

    does this also mean I can consider you signed up for the club?

  53. Hola Bill,

    Move over ’cause here I come to jump on the bed with everyone and laugh and bring joy, share tears, laughter, or even sweet silence. I believe in bringing the childlike fun in people and happy kindness. Nice to meet you Bill.

    Nice to meet you, jump in there is lots of room for everyone.
    Bill

  54. I never cease to be amazed at the way our lives cross and intermingle at just the right moments. One of your fellow bloggers made a donation to One Spirit as a random act of kindness and included a link to your site. As donor services coordinator I followed her link and was mesmerized by the next hour reading your story and the comments by your many friends. I’m certain this was not just “happen stance”. My life has been a mixture of extreme heartbreak and great joy over the last year and I’m sure it was no “accident” that I was brought here. The readers digest version of my story is that 16 months ago I was happy, healthy, surrounded by a wonderful family and a job that I dearly loved. Within a couple of months I was diagnosed with Scleroderma, my father and mother were diagnosed with cancer on the same day and my father was gone in three weeks. Within weeks we had moved my mom in with us, I had left my job to be her caretaker and my health started to decline. The positive side of this was that I now had the time to pursue the true desires of my heart; to work with Native Americans on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. I was introduced to Jeri Baker with One Spirit and after a few conversations knew that I had found the right group for me. There is no greater joy than giving back to others when your own heart is hurting. It has saved my life and brought joy during my worst moments. I have told many people that this has been “the worst” and “the best” year of my life and it is so true. Bless you Bill for finding the courage to share your story with others and to be a teacher of the joys of “paying it forward”. I encourage anyone that might read this to find the joy of your own heart and pursue it without waiting. I wasted many years fearful of so many things and now I know the joy of letting it go. At the same time, I need to be surrounded by people that understand the pain of losing loved ones and your health and that offer support and encouragement to each other. I guess it took a lot of words to say “I’m on board”. Thank you for being here. Shelly

    Hi Shelly, welcome I am so glad you found the blog. I was going to say found me but know this blog has grown beyond me to become a loving community of friends and we are all so very pleased to have you join us. I thank Diane for leading you here.
    Wow, I don’t know what to say, what a year you have had. Both parents being diagnosed with cancer on the same day, your father passing within 3 weeks. That must have been so very hard on you. I pray your mother is doing as well as can be expected in dealing with her cancer.
    I have to admit I had to google the term Scleroderma, I have never heard of this disease before. You are in my heart and prayers my friend. It truly is a testament to your inner strength that you have been able to keep going with all that has happened. Be proud of yourself for that, though I am sure there are many days when you question this strength but believe me it is obviously there.
    I so admire the attitude you have, to be able to describe your year as both the best and the worst of your life. For so many with all you have gone through, the “worse” would so over shadow the good that it wouldn’t even be seen.
    It is so true that giving to and helping other can be the best medicine for ourselves in a great time of need. I am so happy to hear you found the spot that allowed you to do so. You had the courage to follow your dreams and ended up in exactly the right spot for you.
    I am not familiar with the group One Spirit, perhaps you could tell me more about it. I am fairly well versed in Native affairs and issues. My wife Violet is of First Nations ancestory, plus the bank I worked for transferred me to a branch on a reserve. I lived there for 4 great years and really enjoyed most of it.
    You are in my heart and prayers along with many others. I do hope we will hear from you again.
    Bill

  55. Thank you Bill for your kind words and warm sentiment. I will definitely continue to be in touch and follow your journal while remembering you and your family as you continue this amazing journey.

    I would love to tell you about the organization I volunteer with as it is something I am very passionate about. One Spirit is an all volunteer organization that works hand in hand with the Lakota people on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. We are not affiliated with any religious organization and believe that the Lakota people know best what they need for themselves and their families. One Spirit is there to work side by side with them as they face the many problems associated with high unemployment, low economic development, high drop out rates and suicide rates for the youth, poor nutrition and lack of adequate health care to name a few. We operate the Food Share program that provides a monthly distribution of healthy food to families and elders, a wood and heating program that provides either wood or efficient electric heaters to families that either can’t afford or don’t have propane. The Okini Program which helps with material needs such as clothing, household items and also beads or sewing supplies to help artists to supplement their income. We support the youth on the reservation by various programs with horses, art camps, and most recently a camp that is fostering pride in the traditional Lakota culture and offering alternatives to the temptations of drugs and alcohol that the young people face. You can read more in depth about our work at our website http://www.nativeprogress.org.
    It is hard to believe that in the United States we still have so many people that don’t have the basic necessities such as food, adequate housing and heat. The One Spirit family is committed to creating awareness and standing alongside the Lakota of Pine Ridge as they address these problems. We can’t change the legacy we have with the FIrst Nations but we can work together to dream a new dream of a better life for them in the days to come. This is the way I have chosen to “pay it forward” but I always find that the blessings that come to me are far greater than any small thing I might do.
    Thank you for letting me share this with you and I look forward to being in touch with you in the days to come. You have created a momentum on this blog that is changing the world and it is awesome. Blessings my new friend.
    Shelly

  56. Hector says:

    This article gives the light in which we can observe the idealism. This is very nice and give in depth information. Thanks for this nice article and good posting. I will suggest my friends to read this for certain

  57. Vijay Kumar says:

    The real self of us… our soul atman within… our consciousness is the real essence of life. Self Realization is the culmination of all things spiritual. One who realises self… reaches the end goal of cosmic life… the 8.4 millionth manifestation!

    The journey to self realization is long. God Almighty ordained an earthly manifestation of 12.4 million years for reaching the stage of self realization.

  58. Mel says:

    Well–here I am reporting in with my ‘sneaky venture’. G-d takes really good care of me…He opened up a lot of opportunities today and that’s all I asked for.

    Have you ever taken a stack of paperwork to your secretary to file and just plopped it on her desk, apologized for adding to her load and just walked? Yeah, well, I have.

    It took me all of five minutes to do the helpful thing–I filed ‘stuff’ myself. Now, I know that doesn’t seem like much….but it floor her that I’d take the time to do that when it’s ‘her job’.

    And that was first thing this morning–early enough for me to align my thinking to ‘what can I do to make someone else’s job EASIER today’. And boy did I get opportunity after opportunity.
    Sadly–people tried to take it away from me more than once “MY job” they’d tell me.
    It was cool to tell them what the thought for my day was centered on…….and to watch it spread through the whole crew.

    Now tell me that ain’t cool….LOL

  59. thecrazylady says:

    I love this idea! please consider me your friend. http://www.thecrazylady.wordpress.com

  60. Carol says:

    Sign me up! Thanks for letting us in. Does it count to contribute a Grateful Dead tune?
    If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine
    And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung,
    Would you hear my voice come thru the music,
    Would you hold it near as it were your own?

    It’s a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken,
    Perhaps they’re better left unsung.
    I don’t know, don’t really care
    Let there be songs to fill the air.

    Ripple in still water,
    When there is no pebble tossed,
    Nor wind to blow.

    Reach out your hand if your cup be empty,
    If your cup is full may it be again,
    Let it be known there is a fountain,
    That was not made by the hands of men.

    There is a road, no simple highway,
    Between the dawn and the dark of night,
    And if you go no one may follow,
    That path is for your steps alone.

    Ripple in still water,
    When there is no pebble tossed,
    Nor wind to blow.

    You who choose to lead must follow
    But if you fall you fall alone,
    If you should stand then whos to guide you?
    If I knew the way I would take you home.

    Hi Carol and welcome to the club. Thank you for sharing the words to the song. The words really do have a lot of meaning to them. Hope to hear from you again.
    Bill

  61. souldipper says:

    I’m here…suited up and smiling!

  62. foxfires71 says:

    Please include me in this beautiful circle of kindness. Kim

  63. hilarymb says:

    Hi Bill – definitely sign me in … I still visit the Nursing Centre where my mother died and spend time with the elderly, particularly two – and then there’s a young lad in the States who has been in a life threatening situation … and who interacts with me – and he offered to write a card to one of the elderly, who has no-one in her life – amazing lad.

    I’m with you … and it’s great to see so many others .. I’ll be back to re-read your Spirit Within Me post …

    All the very best – Hilary

  64. Sally says:

    I am not sure where is the best place to leave this info. My husband died at 42 from a long illness. The booklet that helped him so much at the end of his life and helped me is “Hard Choices for Loving People” by Hank Dunn. Order one from Amazon you will not be disappointed. The author has another book called “Light in the Shadows.” Please spread the word about these books they are very helpful. My best to you — thanks for sharing your journey!

  65. Sherry Howdle says:

    Hi cousin! Count me in! Thanks for spending 5 minutes (or a bit longer) on the phone with me the other day – or should I be thanking Mr. Connery for sharing his time. It was great to hear from you and reconnect. I will definitely be paying it forward. It reminded me that a simple phone call out of the blue and reconnecting with someone really is a great way to spend your time letting the people in your life know they are loved and thought about.

    I told you I would check out the blog when report cards were finished. So, I spent a great deal of time reading through the blog this morning. You truly are inspirational! After reading through many of your messages and people’s comments, I want to be better, try harder and give more… and you are right – it only takes 5 minutes to make a huge difference in someone’s day or life. Definitely sign me up!

    I do try to do random acts of kindness. I have your voice in my head many days when I an opportunity comes up, but you have shown me that I could do better at, as Mel mentioned, “Giving up some ‘me’ time”. That will be my goal moving forward. To take 5 minutes and have a ‘chat’ with someone, or to take the time to mention to the manager or restaurant about someone who did a good job, and have the person be recognized for their good work or efforts. Even some of my family members I could do a better job of checking in with o letting them know that I am thinking of them.

    Thanks for the inspiration yet again!! Talk to you soon! Cousin Sherry
    Thank you

  66. hilarymb says:

    Hi Bill – I’m here too .. and definitely do what I can for others .. time is precious – but it’s more precious if we share …

    With thoughts and thanks – Hilary

  67. Maggie says:

    Don’t know how I have come across your blog?
    I’ve read various extracts about how you view the ‘spirit’ this made me want to mention a therapy called Reiki. You may of heard of it or even had a go? If not then if you want to feel what it’s like to have somebody feel your inner spirit and awaken the warmth within – take a leap of faith – have a go xx Your right the body is just the vehicle! Much love from the UK 🙂

  68. SHAHID says:

    DEAR BILL :

    I AM 65 AND IN A MOMENT OF GREAT DESPAIR , HELPLESSNESS AND TURMOIL CAUGHT YOUR BLOG WHILE SEARCHING SOME THINNG TO PACIFY MY UNEXPRESSABLE DEPRSSED MOMENT.

    I LIVE IN A CITY FAR FAR FROM YOU AND MY CONDITIONS ARE UNDESCRIBEABLE, I AM IN A VERY POOR CONDITION BE IT HEALT, BE IT AGE, BE IT FINANCE OR BE IT FAMILY & FREINDS. IN SUCH MOMENTS OF DESPAIR , I WAS SURFING THE NET ( I HAVE VERY LIMITED EXCESS TO NET AS I DON’T HAVE ANY COMPUTER ) . I AM QUITE ILL COMPLEX ISSUES OF BEING OVER-WEIGHT, DIABETIC AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE ETC YET I HAVE TO WORK HARD , MOSTLY RIDING ON BIKE IN EXTREMELY UNDISCIPLINED , HORRIBLE TRAFFIC. I WAS JUST SEARCHING BLOGS TO SEE THAT ARE THERE ANY PEOPLE WHOSE STORY CAN HELP & ENCOURAGE ME TO LIVE , LIVELY UNDER MY CONDITIONS AND LUCKILY I FIND YOUR BLOG.

    I AM NOT EDJUCATED ENOUGH TO EXPRESS MY ACTUAL FEELINGS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE . I FEEL DIFFICULT TO EVEN COMPOSE FEW SENTENCES BUT I DON’T KNOW HOW I AM ENABLE TO WRITE THESE FEW LINES. I HAVE READ ONLY ON ENTRY (11 NOV, 2014) OF YOUR BLOG AND FEEL LIGHT HEARTED DESPITE POVERY, NOT HAVING WATER FOR LAST FOUR DAYS TO WASH MY FACE, NOT HAVING ENOUGH MONEY TO BUY A COMPUTER , NOT HAVING MONEY FOR MY LAB TEST EXPENSES OR VISITING THE DOCTOR . I HAVE BEEN SUFFERING FROM LOT OF ALILMENTS AND SOMETIMES I FEEL DEATH VERY NEAR BUT IN OUR REGION IT’S VERY COMMON TO PASS THROUGH THESE CIRCUMSTANCES WITHOUT ANY FINANCIAL, MEDICAL SUPPORT AND EVERYDAY LIVING COMMO0N FACILITIES. DESPITE ALL I FEEL LUCKY FROM HUNDRED OF PEOPLE LIVING IN MY VICINITY THAT ALTHOUGH I CANNOT WRITE BUT AT LEAST I CAN READ.

    I PRAY FOR YOU .IT’S REALLY AMAZING THAT YOU ARE WRITING SINCE 2006 WITH SUCH REGULARITY.
    MAY GOD BLESS YOU
    THROUGH YOU I FEEL THAT IAM NOT “ALONE’

    REGARDS.

    SHAHID AHMED SIDDIQUI

    Hello Shamid and welcome to my blog. I am sorry to hear of your circumstances, you are dealing with many issues. My heart and prayers go out to you.
    Loneliness can be a terrible thing to deal with. Feeling no one else could possible understand what we are going through. Having no one to talk to that could really understand.
    You have found a spot here where you are welcome to talk and will be heard by those that understand. You are not alone.
    Bill

    • SHAHID says:

      Dear Bill
      May God bless you. I am really pleased to receive your very comforting rather soothing reply. Your project “spirit within me” is great .

      How strange that the words have the beauty and power to create a harmony between two persons totally strangers to each other, having different religions, belonging from different spheres yet having lot of common beliefs about the dignity of life and human being. I have thought a lot about you as well as millions of other people . I cannot understand hatred , I believe in love and affection on a universal basis.

      it was sometimes ago whein I was under a very depressed mood and thinking myself as a useless , rotten old man when the thought occured to me that God has not created any thing without a purpose then how can I, being a living human being who has passed almost 65 years of life on this earth , who had a most devoted and compasswionate wife for last 35 years, who has a loving daugter and son, who has a grandson and a great daughter can feel himself useless. Yes, no doubt due to my circumstances I may seem as useless but even the most useless creature in the world at least i have the strenght to do some thing for others. since that day I have found one purpose for me and dear Bill that purpose is to keep praying for others, dear Bill I pray, I pray all the time for people like me, for people going in the ambulances, for people I hear or see in the news, for the hungry children, for the greiving parents, for rich and for poor even for the ill and dirty dogs and donkeys carrying load much beyond their capacity. I pray ( we in our language call ( DUA , d as (th in though, ua as pass ) si I keep begging to God for mthe comfort , blessings , mercy and ease for all whom I know and all whom I dont know. All who are near and all who are far far from me… and Bill i pray for you, you are doing a good job for those who are passing through any misery.

      SHAHID

      Dear SHAHID, so nice to hear from you again my friend. I am so happy you sound to be so much better than when we last communicated.
      As you describe your family it is obvious you are a blessed man.
      Circumstances, physical condition so very many things can make us feel useless. I understand that feeling.
      I am so happy you have found a purpose for being. I absolutely believe in the amazing power of prayer. That you are dedicating yourself to praying for other for all is a wonderful thing. I thank you for your prayers.
      I have said many times here on the blog, people are people, no different from each other. When we come into this world, coming straight from God, we are all perfect. How we grow and develop depends on our circumstances in the outside, human world around us.
      I can easily understand how kindred spirits can connect here via the Internet. Love, tolerance, understanding should be all that matters.
      So glad things have improved for you. I hope to hear more from you. You and yours are in my heart, thoughts and prayers
      Bill

  69. hilarymb says:

    Hi Bill – I’m re-signing up .. I signed about 13 months ago .. still doing what I can for others and taking life gently … not stressing, relaxing and not worrying … helping out where I can … thinking kind thoughts …

    Thanks for the reminder here …and Happy Birthday … cheers to you and many more whatever’s until your butt is stamped – Hilary xoxoxo

  70. Tracey says:

    I am in, and it is a pleasure to be part of this all. Just reading everything each posts is a blessing in its self. Glad to be part of something as great as this.

    Hi Tracey, happy to see you came over and joined.
    Bill

  71. gail goss says:

    I think this is a great idea. I am in awe of you thinking about helping others and also coping with the situation you are facing. I will try to do an act of kindness and will let you know. I have done good things for people in the past and it does make you feel good. ( I recognise that warm fuzzy feeling you talk about) Thanks for sharing, Gail

    Hi Gail and welcome to my blog. So nice to see you here and am glad you have signed on. Will look forward to hearing of your acts of kindness.
    Bill

  72. […] ~VIEW ORIGINAL~ […]

    I am honoured you would choose to repost my writing. This is very special to me, I hope by you reposting it will encourage others to join in the sharing acts of kindness
    Bill

  73. Alison says:

    Such a lovely idea, paying it forward really is the way. I’ll defo be doing this Bill, you are such a good man with a big heart

    Welcome Allison. So glad to see you here. I thank you for your kind words. I hope you jump right in and get those acts of kindness flowing. I know you have a big kind heart and that you already do many such acts. A big one being putting up with me on Words. One act at a time we CAN change the world.
    Bill

  74. Evelyn Norma spence says:

    Father god lord of heaven and earth in the name of your son Jesus hear my prayers and thoughts. I feel like I have truly blessed to have met Bill. I felt like I had known him all my life just felt so comfortable being around him and could talk and share so many thoughts and different feelings

    Hi Evelyn, thank you for your so kind words. It has been indeed a pleasure meeting and getting to know you.
    Welcome to the club. Looking forward to hearing of your acts of kindness.
    Bill

  75. Maaria says:

    I can’t begin to express just how inspiring you are, and that’s just from having read this post. The world needs more people like you, Bill.
    Thank you for taking the time to spread your positivity. Acts of Kindness is such a powerful concept and I look forward to spreading the warmth wherever possible.

    Maaria

    Hi and welcome to the blog. I thank you so much for your so kind words. It is so nice to see you here. I know you have a lot going on right but also know You have a big kind heart and that you will find time to spread even the simplest acts as you can.
    Enjoy our games over on Words, thank you for playing.
    Bill

  76. Gaynor smith says:

    Its a shame not everyone helps others or performs any act of kindness. The world would be such a better place.

    Hi, and welcome to the blog. You are so right about the world being a better place. It has to start somewhere, so let it be with each of us individually doing our part.
    Really enjoying our games, thank you.
    Bill

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