Jan Snell was the recipient.
I am going to get on a soapbox now, Okay? If you don't want to read it, then see you next week!
This is directed mostly at women, so if you are a man reading this, then forgive me.
Why do we, mostly women, feel like we need to compete with one another? I know sometimes I find myself getting defensive about certain things I do. Life is not a competition! Women should work together, encourage one another, build each other up, speak positive words, be truthful, be humble. We can be all these things and still be strong and kick ass at life!
I work hard to attain physical strength, I save money to take vacations.
I feel so fortunate to live my life and have the strength and abilities that I have. So why do some people make me feel bad, or belittle me because I work hard for these? And even more than that, why do I let them make me feel that way??? This is a rhetorical question.
How about we start looking for ways to encourage other people. I challenge you to speak positive words to a stranger every day. (and then someone who is not a stranger) You never know what a positive impact that may have on them.
Jumping off my soapbox now......
Here's my Instagram feed for the week.
Enjoy your weekend beautiful friends!
I TOTALLY agree with your statement regarding supporting each other. I remember smiling at an older( than me) woman waiting with a cart in a grocery store. Her face lit up and she complimented me on my” beautiful smile”. I realized that little,mindless interaction might be one of the only interactions she might have that day.
ReplyDeleteThus made me realize how something as simple as a smile could brighten someone’s day. It also conveys how a rude or brusque interaction could have an upsetting effect. I have also felt the need to defend myself for my lifestyle which I worked hard for. I don’t get it.i have friends who can afford things and vacations that I cannot. I don’t resent them- I’m happy for them!
Maybe we should all move a bit slower, think before we speak and try to be kinder. Maybe some would find some peace with themselves. Enjoy your day and thank you for sharing!
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Deleteo agree and your maybe we should move a bit slower, think before we speak and try to be kinder about sums up how I would like to be remembered.
Words to live by! You are one of the most positive and encouraging quilt bloggers I know. We can only be responsible for what comes out of our own mouths (or fingertips here!) so I for one will try every day to be more kind and encouraging and NOT let any negative comments bother me. Thanks for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteI used to get discouraged because I was comparing myself to other women, but I did get over that. We also need to remember that we don't know what is going on in the background. We all have problems, pain and grief at times that we don't share. We should be grateful for the little things too; a sunny sky, flowers, trees, and of course quilting. Sharing quilts with others is a joy and helps use up fabric. We share a wonderful craft and talent that a lot of people don't have and it gives us strength and purpose!
ReplyDeleteAn age old question my friend. We are privileged in so many ways and you always help me remember the importance with giving back. Your kindness and generosity are gifts. Those who compare and complain are missing out.
ReplyDeleteWe have a saying that says: how do you do always you make mistakes!
ReplyDeleteIts possible that on other people eyes everything we do or say it’s wrong.
This do not mean that is true! You are such a wonderful person, and I agree with the other comments.
I learned that to be kind is more easy than to be rude, we could show with our actions and word love and kindness, and this is what we all need more! Hugs and enjoy your weekend!
Great little quilt! I believe kindness is a Free gift we can give each other.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your adventures.
You can hop on that soap box anytime, Lori!
ReplyDeleteI realized long ago that the people I admired the most were people who built other people up, rejoiced in their accomplishments, and made them feel special in a genuine way. Those people also seem secure in their own skin. They don't need to make other people feel bad in order to feel good about themselves.
You are passionate about many things, and I enjoy all of your adventures, whether traveling, quilting, or running and hiking.
p.s. Forgot to say, lucky Jan to not have a partner and end up getting that sweet creation from you!
ReplyDeleteJealous people cannot be happy for others, only mad that they can’t have the same things. It’s a mystery to me why some people are unable to refrain from expressing their negative opinions. I’m glad you make the life you want, and hope others do the same!
ReplyDeletePreach it, sister! Kindness is free; we can all use it abundantly to bless those around us. And isn't kindness (along with generosity) really just a way to express the Golden Rule?
ReplyDeleteTotally agree. I am 60 and I have known this kind of behavior since I was 3. Woman can be very cruel just for the pleasure of it and I'll never understand why. I am always kind to people and animals alike and feel very good about how I treat others. My mother taught me young that my smile or kind word can and will make a difference. I always acknowledge anyone I have contact with. I am a happy person because of it.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree! We put enough pressure on ourselves without adding comparison and jealousy!Cheering you on!!!
ReplyDeleteIt's hard for me to explain in English so I would like to say : please...don't change ! You are full of kindness, courageous and a wonderful quilter ! So please don't change !
ReplyDeleteSoap boxes relieve stress. I was privileged to listen. That's what friends are for. Cute quilt. Blessings.
ReplyDeleteI like to read your posts because they inspire me to quilt, to exercise & to enjoy life! And I totally agree with you we need more kindness and good manners in our world.
ReplyDeleteAmen! I loved this soapbox post, Lori. You said it well.
ReplyDeleteYour little quilt is adorable. Lucky Jan. (I also wanted to say that while I was making the rounds of the quilt exchange participants online I happened upon a blog of a lady who received two little quilts. I can't remember who it was....)
Yes, that was coordinator error. Lol
DeleteLori you are SO dear. If there is any negativity pointed in your direction it must be that the people spouting such drivel are just plain jealous. You are such an inspiration to so many and do such good in this world. And a terrific quilter to boot!!!!! Hugs to you dear girl, today and all days.
Delete“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.”
ReplyDelete― Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart This is one of my favorite quotes....I think you choose wisely and that makes you the amazing person you are!
A local shop had two yard cuts on sale and I found a nice double pink. Wasn't sure which way to use it. This nine patch would be a good option. Thanks for the inspiration and posting so frequently. The content of this blog is positive and motivating because of all the ideas and images. I like the way you set a fine example for any visitor and wish you well.
ReplyDeleteI think it is wonderful that you are able to do all that you do and work part time also. Your vacations are well deserved.
ReplyDeleteOh Lori, I am so tempted to climb up on that same soapbox with you dear. It is hard to imagine why some folks behave the way they do. I can only tell you that I enjoy everything you share and the way you share it. Your little quilt is beautiful. Keep your chin up and remember that the negative comments only reflect on the person saying them, no one else. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteDon't apologize for getting up on your soapbox and speaking your mind! You are a strong and intelligent woman whose words are worth reading and considering. I admire you and think highly of the choices you make, a fine example to us all, yet you remain both humble and kind. [I am saddened that someone mean made you feel bad tho.]. Sending a smile your way!
ReplyDeletelizzy
Lori admiro tu talento, creatividad y generosidad.
ReplyDeleteJan es afortunada de recibir tu preciosa colcha.
Buen fin de semana
Kindness makes every day better...
ReplyDeleteBullying and belittling takes many forms - thanks for speaking out and raising awareness as the leader you are!!
ReplyDeleteGood for you for venting it out. So many times I see women suffering in silence because they don't want to make matters worst. I think it's the other way around; if you speak up, bullies shut up. People throw rocks at things that shine, remember that and tell yourself if they hit on you it's because, in their eyes, you shine and they envy you. You shine in my eyes too but I don't have to put other people down in order to make myself shine. I just connect with shiny people and together, we shine even brighter. :^D The worst sea storm can not sink a ship unless the ship lets in the water. So don't let them soak you wet. Think how misery their lives must be to always think negatively. This life is yours, live it the way you want and if you are happy living it the way it is, the heck with the rest. Keep up the great work because personally I love what you do like that mini quilt; it is so adorable. Great job! Hugs. ;^)
ReplyDeleteI love the quote by Maya Angelou that people will forget what you say or did, but they will remember how you made them feel! We, as women, need to lift one another up!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear that you experienced some negative interactions recently. It's amazing how hurtful words can be. Keep up the good work you DO!! Keep it up.
ReplyDeleteAmen! You go girl!
ReplyDeleteYou brighten my day with your blog, so thank you for all that you do.
ReplyDeleteWell said.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry that you've been criticized, Lori. Like others have said, I enjoy reading your posts, seeing your hikes, and I especially looked forward to your Italy trip (it's on our bucket list). Time spent with your kids is never time wasted, and this trip will be a special memory for the two of you. Just stick with that, and ignore the meanies who say stupid things.
ReplyDeleteI think that you are an awesome role model. I don't know if someone in your personal life or your internet life has made you feel so bad. Whoever it is, they are wrong, wrong, wrong about you. You are a strong and giving woman. Please continue to share your life with us out here in the internet world.
ReplyDeleteNice soap box! During my 73 years I have found that the women who are jealous, envious, hateful, etc are those women who do not like where they are in life, OR, they are so power hungry that they have to attempt to bring down others, and that is mostly in a vindictive way. After retirement I and I chose quilting as my hobby, I thought that Quilt Guilds would be great to join! I misjudged that one. Put a group of women in an organization and Clique's form and they go after those that make better quilts, are better organizers, and win ribbons,etc. I miss visiting with the nice ladies, but I worked 38 years for the Feds and had had enough of back biting, two-faced women. I found that those who even did not quilt wanted to run the organization and members needed to keep their mouths shut. I was not one of the quiet ones, but chose to not participate anymore because my time was too precious. After all, members pay dues and without those paying members there would not be a Guild! Of course, I live in South Texas and women are different here.
ReplyDeleteA smile and hello goes a long way with strangers, or those we encounter in a business and give them a compliment - men and women. Everyone responds to kind respectful words. I like the soap box segment! I do not call them Bullies - I call them miserable human beings who cannot or will not change their lives! Have a wonderful Memorial Day and enjoy all of your posts - soapbox or not!
Love your little quilt! It's a real gem.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry you have had to deal with negativity. So often it is driven by jealousy. You are usually so positive and up beat and it's a treat to read your blog. Thank you for being there for those of us who enjoy your company.
Oops - forgot to compliment you on your small quilt! Pretty!
ReplyDeleteIf someone has said something bad to you they should be ashamed! I think you are great. I love seeing quilts you are working on and moments with your family. I love when you travel and share all your wonderful pictures. I think you have many friends out here on the internet. Hugs,
ReplyDeleteLori, You can hop on your soap box anytime! I love your blog because of you...your kindness, your positive attitude, and your love of family and friends. Some women have what I call "middle schoolits"...they are unhappy souls who are missing out on life. Thank you for being you!
ReplyDeleteAlways keep a happy heart! ❤
As to your soap box, stand proud and stand tall. I have never understood petty behavior. I congratulate you on many levels, but off the top of my head here goes a couple of instances, for being mindfully physically active and challenging yourself each day.
ReplyDeleteDear heart....your kindness and sweetness comes through in nearly every blog post. I agree with you one hundred percent and have often wondered the same things myself. How can we expect to be treated or recompensed as equals when we don't treat each other as equals. It is easy to understand why all women get a bad rep as we are so catty and unsupportive and yes, jealous of each other. I would chalk up any negative comments about you, your work, your lifestyle or your accomplishments as nothing but pure ENVY! I expect you are quite fine with yourself when you go to bed at night---that is what matters. I am always heartened by someone else's blessings in life----because I KNOW that if it can happen for them--it can happen for me or anyone else. Blessings, Lori...please know that for every naysayer you have a multitude applauding you.
ReplyDeleteLooking at all the responses I think your soapbox comment hit home, especially " And even more than that, why do I let them make me feel that way??? " I have dealt with the feelings of inadequacy for years, why, I have no idea. I do know that when I decide that I will not allow them to have that mind control over my thoughts that I feel wonderful about my choices and how I am living my life.
ReplyDeleteI love kind of bragging about my successful friends, like you. Seeing you doing so much in your life makes me happy that I know you and you are living your authentic life. Being joyful and reveling in other peoples successes and good fortune does nothing to diminish ones own accomplishments. Feel free to ride that soap box anytime, and just continue being you, 'cus you are treasured by so many!
ReplyDelete