Words To Live By

'In the end only kindness matters".  It's a line which resonated with me after hearing Rachael Leahcar sing Jewel's song, "Hands" during an episode of The Voice.  How I loved that show! However I am quite relieved it's over to be honest.  I cried through most of it and the extra tissue expenditure was beginning to eat into my budget.

Only the most hardened individuals could be unmoved by Rachael's determination and attitude coupled with Karise and her battle to overcome personal issues.  Even the singing teacher from Delta's team caused me to shed a tear or two as I empathised with her desire to have her shining moment before she slumps into the murky depths of motherhood.  I felt happier though when she changed her hairstyle.

My fellow man/woman is a constant source of inspiration and amazement.  Rachael and her positivity in the face of adversity has inspired in me a desire to resurrect my New Year's resolution from 1982-2005 which, in essence, was "To Be A Nicer Person".  Jewel's profound words of faith and adversity in the face of obstacles and despair rekindled something shrivelled and wizened within my spirit and I am once again plumped up with goodness and purpose.  (Post 2005 my resolutions involved reducing my alcohol intake).

Rachael's exhortation and encouragement to smile though beset by problems and setbacks has given me the boost I need to strive against my genetic predisposition to despondency, gloom and cynicism.  If I had a dollar for every time some comedic genius has said to me,"Smile, it can't be that bad",I would be shopping at Prada.  This one sided dialogue began when I was still in my pram.  Over the years these encounters have caused me to hone my F*** You expression to a laser-like cutting edge but when it first happened it took me by surprise. Because I was not sad or worried.  My default expression is morose.

Some people are blessed with naturally cheerful and upbeat personalities and the faces to match.  Others, like myself, have to work at it.  I try to look at the bright  side and to stop and smell the roses/coffee/freshly mowed grass but I find it much more natural to whinge and bitch and moan.

Rachael is correct though when she says that it makes others feel better if you smile (sometimes the natural downward trend of my features can make other people nervous). That in itself is reason to keep plugging away.  To this end I have downloaded the song onto my iPod and I hope the subliminal reinforcement will assist me in my quest.  For your edification here is a link to 'Hands" by Jewel.  It's a beautiful song and worth another listen.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk0bKfC8XSE