Perception

So, I generally think of myself as a fairly perceptive person. I feel I think things through, and try do to the right things most of the time. However...I'm learning - painfully - that just because I think something is the right thing to do, doesn't mean it's the right action for others. How is it possible to feel so positively about something...and turn out heinously wrong? For people affected in this process, how do you make amends? I'm afraid that I have forgotten about putting myself in another's shoes, and seeing it from their point of view - and this is something really good to remember! I'm also forgetting one of my favorite prayers - the Serenity Prayer:

"God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

Wisdom is not always an easy thing to come by. Often, a painful lesson is tacked to it. Darn tacks. I guess my posting today is about stopping and thinking. Just because I intended something one way, doesn't mean the perception will be what I intended. I need to stop and think...then act ONLY if it is something I can change.

Love and peace
Denise

Fall!

I can't even tell you how much I love fall. Do I wish my wedding would have been last weekend or so? Yes - so many more colors now! Of course, it's also been very rainy, harvesting is going on, and campaign has started - so I did it the best way I could. :) Anyhoo - FALL! I love the colors in Minnesota in the fall! I love when the temperatures start to cool down, the dust settles, pollen is not in the air, and my allergies/asthma can settle down. Late summer/early fall has been very rough on my poor lungs. :(

Oh well - on to better things. My friend TS just told me about making chili this past weekend. I like to make chili, but 1) can't figure out a way to make a small batch and 2) it never turns out how I want. I want a nice thick chili, but you could still put some crackers in, and it won't just dry out. I generally stick to black beans because I can stand their texture and they are small. We have to keep the level of spiciness down so the hubby will eat it and enjoy it (plus, my body just can't handle that stuff anymore).

I grew up not liking my dad's chili much - probably too many beans. But, now I wish I could come closer to his - it was nice and hearty and thick. If anyone cares to share - an email would suffice, or you can comment and give me a link or a recipe - I'd love it! I promise to try it and let you know how we did with it. Of course, if we get lots of recipes, it may take a while. ;)

Sorry it's been so long - I'll try to post more often. =)