I still remember that moment, and I still have that little red ribbon. When we graduated 13 years later, I stood on that stage and gave Valedictory address to that same group of students, none of whom even remembered that moment anymore. So, I told them about that little boy who had made a split-second decision that helping a friend up was more important than winning a blue ribbon. In my speech I told them that I wouldn’t tell which of guys sitting there on that stage was little boy although he was up there with me. I wouldn’t tell because in truth at one time or another all of them had been that little boy—helping me up when I fell, taking time out from their pursuit of their own goals to help a fellow person in need.

And I told them why I’ve kept that ribbon. You see to me, that ribbon is a reminder that you don’t have to be a winner in eyes of world to be a winner to those closest to you. The world may judge you a failure or a success, but those closest to you will know truth. That’s important to remember as we travel through this life.

You may not have a red ribbon to prove it, but I sincerely hope you have at least a few friends who remember you for taking time out from your pursuit of that blue ribbon to help them. I’m thinking those will be ones that really count—I know it’s one that counted most to me.

Copyright Staci Stallings 2003

You won't miss thoughts you would've had while doing dishes, but you will definitely benefit from focused attention on your heart and this remarkably simple way to restore equilibrium.

Madge Manicurist encouraged us to soak in order to soften. By taking it one step further, you can ease into your dishwashing task with intention and emerge with a sense of lightness--as well as gleaming dishes.

Think of it as mindful multitasking, and scrub your way to a more balanced day.

Pass sponge.