I sit here in the dark of the night reflecting on what to write you this month about what brings smiles and nothing specific, yet everything, seems to flood my mind. One of the books that I wrote for children, Nicholas’ Values: A Child’s Guide to Building Character, is about teaching good values (honesty, loyalty, sharing, etc.) and I think about the Dedication Page in it. Since the book is encouraging good character, I decided to dedicate it to those people who helped shape my character as a child and teen. The average child in my day and time had ten to fourteen significant adults involved in his or her upbringing. I have 58 names on that page! How could I not grow up well? Sadly, the average child today has, on average, only one to four significant adults helping them to grow up responsibly.

When the day gets too long and I’m tired or have an overwhelming work week or have a long stretch of difficult times, I intentionally try to think of what’s right in the world. Just a few of the things that come to mind that bring a smile to my face are:

See side bar for information on Sharon's wonderful books for elementary-age children. There is a discounted price on the 5-book series that even includes a darling Nicholas puppet. See "The Nicholas Collection" at www.hrdpress.com/SharonScott .

I still have my Mother living and that my parents role-modeled for 57 ½ years how to be happily married a Texas sunset the look of adoration in the eyes of Scooter, my tri-color Cocker Spaniel 40” of rain in the past month (unheard of in Texas this time of year!) Liz, a wonderful friend whom I’ve had for more years than I care to name! a great movie my Cecile Bruner roses that smell so sweet cornbread made in a black iron skillet the energy that Gabe, the new puppy, has brought to the other five geriatric dogs in my home four absolutely wonderful grandparents.

Isn't it interesting that money nor material possessions are on my list? Yet that is often what we keep striving for to make us happy. My list could go on, I but prefer for you to think of ten things that bring a smile to your face. Do it now… smile… enjoy… repeat when needed!

Copyright 2007, Sharon Scott.

P.S. Please check out my other column, “The Counselor’s Corner,”about Self-Esteem and Peer Pressure.

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