“A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old. It is easy to love children. Even tyrants and dictators make a point of being fond of children. But the affection and care for the old, the incurable, the helpless are the true gold mines of a culture.”  Abraham Joshua Heschel

I came accross this quote today while looking for something to inspire along with today’s 365 Self Portrait.  Given that I am overwhelmed in dealing with my 92 year old MIL, this quote really struck me big time.  It’s would be so easy to just leave my Mother in Law to the system and just hope that all works out for the best.  However, I just can’t let that happen.  I can’t just turn my back and not care.  Hence I am her advocate.  And I’m a good advocate.  I see so many sick and elderly people with no one to care for them so they sit and whither away.  So sad.  I can’t take up all the causes . . . but I can certainly have an impact where I can.  If each one of us had that approach to life . . . believing that we could make a difference in how we interact with others on a daily basis with a genuine heart and spirit . . . well . . . I only hope to inspire my Grandkids with that same spirit.  

Today’s picture – is of my favorite necklace that I wear every day.  I’ve had this necklace for many years. These little gold nuggets are from California, where I lived for 35 years.  I was born in Northern Ontario, moved to Northern California when I was 13, and then back to my native country, to British Columbia, when I was 48.  However, bits of my heart – like these bits of gold – still reside in California.  I am so fortunate that I am able to visit them often – every few months at the least.

50-365

50-365