Wow, week 20 already – that was last week. We’re into week 21 now … where has the time gone? 🤔
Early last week, as I was thinking about what to write, I stumbled upon a blog I wrote in 2021. The picture in that blog brings back fond memories of our humble upbringing. It’s amazing how old photos can ground us in nostalgia 🙌❤️
Looking back, what’s in an old photo!!
Time and life move forward relentlessly, teaching us that our mortality and circumstances are beyond our control.
Looking back, I realize our parents were teaching us so many things. For instance, patience, even when it felt like they were saying no. The phrase “patience is a virtue” shouldn’t just be a quote – it MUST be a guiding principle to live by.
“Clean the house! Clean the kitchen! Clean your room! Clean! Clean! Clean!” Growing up, I thought my parents were being super strict with all the cleaning chores. But now I see the wisdom – a clean home reflects a clear mind. It’s not about perfection (mine’s a work in progress 😅), but about creating space for what matters. And you never know who might drop by ❤️
Growing up as pastors’ kids, we were taught to always be ready for unexpected guests – keep the fire burning, the kettle warm, and the heart open. Despite my parents’ modest income, our table was often filled with food thanks to the congregation’s generosity. They instilled in us the value of kindness and gratitude, reminding us daily that we thrived on the goodwill of others.
Goodwill – the good we receive is meant to be shared, not hoarded. Sometimes, simply showing up and being present for others is the greatest gift.
In business, goodwill is an invaluable asset that goes beyond tangible measures. And I realise this is one of the greatest lessons from our parents, in life it’s the intangibles – kindness, generosity, and empathy – that truly matter. Extending goodwill, even to those we may not see eye-to-eye with, is where its true value lies.
I’m rambling, that’s what happens when I’m nostalgic. So I’ll stop here, and share some verses from the bible, to encourage us.
Psalms 19:1 NKJV
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork.
Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV
[22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Job 14:1-2 NKJV
[1] “Man who is born of woman Is of few days and full of trouble. [2] He comes forth like a flower and fades away; He flees like a shadow and does not continue.
To God be the glory always 🙏❤️
Idau Hahine 