This is ... All of Us

GRATEFUL GIRL'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
I finally caved.

After much prompting and prodding and urging and pressuring from my niece, my sister, my girlfriends and even my day job boss (and I get the distinct impression he's quite selective when it comes to these things) --- I have begun watching the television phenomenon "This is Us." Geez; get off my back already!

JK; it is clearly one of the best written, acted and directed programs to grace the small screen since"ER" or "thirtysomething." #manisitgood  I'm only on episode 10 (though I kinda know what happened in the season finale) so don't tell me anything!

Either way, I could list a myriad of reasons to watch the show, which pulled me in immediately, BTW and not the least of which are two of its leading men, Jack and Randall Pearson played impeccably by  Milo Ventimiglia and Sterling K. Brown, respectively. Swoon. 

Ahem. Sorry. Anyway, probably the most provoking reason for anyone to watch the show is how the two main characters, Jack and Rebecca Pearson (Vetimigia and Mandy Moore, shown above) love their three children with their whole hearts---both of them.

For some, giving of themselves to others, whether they are family members, friends, co-workers or even strangers in need, is easy, natural -- almost instinct. But for others, perhaps those who have done so previously and regretted it because it resulted in hurt or loss, it's a little trickier to give so completely.

But here's the thing; anything truly worth having, doing, being or becoming takes effort, patience, determination, dedication and commitment. Whether it's that big promotion, an academic degree or certification, that expensive new car, or, most importantly, being the best Mom, aunt, sister, sibling, friend, boss, employee, volunteer or you-fill-in-the-blank you can be, you won't succeed unless you're in it to win it; you try your hardest and you give it your all ... with your whole heart.

Now, if you'll excuse me...episode 11 awaits...

Ps 25:4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8-9 - R. (6a) Remember your mercies, O Lord. Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior. Remember that your compassion, O LORD, and your kindness are from of old. In your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O LORD. Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way. Verse Before the Gospel Jl 2:12-13 - Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart; for I am gracious and merciful.                         PHOTO CREDIT: http://www.nbc.com/this-is-us/photos