Just Trying to Matter

I loved Reese Witherspoon's Oscar acceptance speech. There were four elements that send a positive message to our parents and our youth.

1. "Whether I was making my bed or making a movie, my parents were always proud of me. They never hesitated to say how proud they were of me. And that means so very much to a child. So thank you, Mom and Dad."

People underestimate how important it is for children to grow up with a sense of accomplishment and worth. No one can offer this foundation more than a parent.

2. "I want to say thank you to my wonderful husband and my two children ... for loving me so much and supporting me."

Without the support of those closest to you, it is difficult to achieve greatness. It rarely arrives on your doorstep without a team effort. While you rise to the top others may be sacrificing their goals for your happiness. Keep that in mind and be thankful.

3. "I want to say Johnny Cash and June Carter had a wonderful tradition of honoring other artists and musicians and singers, and I really feel that tradition tonight."

Giving gratitude and thanks for others, even the competition that keeps you on your toes, is a great way to stay on top of your game and be spiritual at the same time.

4. "And I want to say that, my grandmother was one of the biggest inspirations in my life. She taught me how to be a real woman to have strength and self respect, and to never give those things away. And those are a lot of qualities I saw in June Carter. People used to ask June how she was doing, and she used to say -- "I'm just trying to matter." And I know what she means. You know, I'm just trying to matter, and live a good life and make work that means something to somebody. And you have all made me feel that I might have accomplished that tonight. So thank you so much for this honor."

Wow thanks Grandma for helping raise such a hometown little girl into an amazing woman. It takes a village and often parents just don't have the life experience or education to provide the kind of wisdom that can only come from Grandma.

June Carter and Reese Witherspoon I am your soul sister and I too understand your quest to JUST WANT TO MATTER. If we could raise all our children with the values that they should strive to make contributions to society that will matter, then the world will be a better place for all.

Amen ... or should I say ...
Namaste - the light in me honors the light in you.