Pay It Forward...

This post is about the things that I have personally seen and experienced.

I received a package in the mail from someone I have never met and have not gone out of my way to do something for. She did it to pay it forward.

I received more cards when my mother in law died from on-line friends than from any others.

My mailbox overflows with well wishes and gifts from the heart. I keep every card. They are all displayed above my desk on a board with ribbons that I can place them on. They are priceless to me.

I got a duck in the mail to remind that this is breast cancer month and how important it is that I take care of myself. I also saw it sent out to many other friends. The coolest.

I have been included in sending needed clothing to an orphanage in China, something I would not know how to do on my own.

I have been included in raising money so that a family can bring their son home from China. An honor. I feel so good being able to help. And I have noticed just how many other families participated and it is just a beautiful thing.

I see pictures of children from all over the world who need a home posted and women who have never seen or touched them, trying desperately to help them find families.

At every babyshower, women come forward and send beautiful gifts to others, sometimes to families whose blogs they have never seen before.

Each time I have needed help, advice or information...someone has come forward to help...every time.

In my life, I believe that your close circle of women friends is critical. I have always surrounded myself with amazing, intelligent women who possess some of the same gifts that I have, but also who possess the gifts I lack. I depend on them for advice, strength and true friendship.

I have also done the same here in my blog community. I am blessed by each and all of you. I have grown and learned so much about what it is to be a woman, a mother, a human being and a citizen of the world. I have come to depend on you for support, knowledge and friendship. You have never let me down.

Truly, I don't know how I'd make it through all of this craziness on my own. Thank you for the inspiration.