Do you realize how few people ever say hello or acknowledge you as you walk past each other when out exercising or shopping or whatever. Look people in the eye and give them a smile and see them as one of God’s children and a part of yourself. When you just think that way your consciousness will affect them and change their behavior towards you; believe me. Give it a test this week; on the street, with your family and at work.
Learn to be grateful for the opportunity of life and it will lead to changes that make it truly a gift. One of my meditations, which comes from a Buddhist story is: “Thank you for everything. I have no complaint what- soever.” Try repeating it several times a day and watch what it does for you and when someone asks you how you are, answer, “I have no complaints.” It will change your way of thinking and your life.
It’s true when I greet people I often say, “Morning” so we don’t get into the good or bad issue but at least I acknowledge their existence. Animals wouldn’t let us get away with that behavior. Our cats and dogs make noise when they want attention or a meal. Or they fall down in front of me, roll over on their back or poke me in the leg to let me know they want a tummy rub or a hug. So the next time you need a hug or a massage just fall down in front of someone you want to notice you and see what the result is.
And keep that child in you alive so you can enjoy the day. The other day I had to fax some forms back to a financial institution. The people there know me so I thought I’d have some fun. Where it said print name I printed NAME and where it said sign here I signed it HERE and faxed it back. A few minutes later I faxed a second copy with my name printed and signature as they desired. I got a phone call telling me there was a new secretary in the office who almost fainted when she saw my first fax response. Well she won’t forget me and maybe she’ll even smile next time.
My other favorites are the signs which say WET FLOOR. I do every time I see one and most of you know I have a mailbox eighteen feet in the air at the end of our driveway which reads AIR MAIL on its side. I don’t want to give out too much of my material or people won’t think I am unique anymore.
The last one was at the Westville Kosher Deli, I walked in and asked where the bacon was located. The customers looked at me like I was nuts but Rachel, the owner is a kid too and she answered, “Over next to the pork.” I am at home there and the food is really good too. Oops they keep reminding me it is not good; it is excellent.
Bernie holds a support group in Simsbury at Wisdom of the Ages the first Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm. Wisdom of the Ages, a special place to nurture your spiritual side. It’s filled with items to calm the mind, heal the body & empower your spirit. They also provide massages & monthly medita– tion classes. Wisdom of the Ages is owned by Bernie’s son & daughter- in-law, Keith & Jane Siegel. Located at 1408 Hopmeadow St. Simsbury. Please call for info or to register for Bernie’s group. (860) 651-1172, www.wis– domoftheages.biz,berniesiegelmd.com.
See ad on page 12.
Bernie also runs a Woodbridge Support Group which meets the Second and Fourth Tuesday evenings of each month at Coach– man’s Square, Bradley Road, Woodbridge, CT. Contact: Lucille Ranciato at 203-288- 2839 or email her at [email protected].