Posts tagged Compassion
Love is Essential to Life
Love is Essential to Life

There's a repeating random thought that has been on my heart for awhile now. Love is essential to life. This message has been pretty direct.

We always think we have more time to tell someone how we feel about them. Or, we think that people already know that we care about them, so why do I have to show them again?

I keep being reminded that because life passes by so quickly, it is so important to put energy and time into showing yourself and others on a daily basis that you value them :) Call someone randomly, make them a cake, or give them a hug.  Just like water is essential to life, so is love!

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Arianna MerrittCommunication, Compassion, conversation, counselling, gifts, love, relationship, relationships, self-love, self-reflection, speaking from the heart, stand tall Comments
Coffee, Talk, & a Walk: Elaine Raakman
Coffee, Talk, & a Walk: Elaine Raakman

I'm delighted that Elaine is sharing with us her thoughts on perseverance. She has extensive experience in education and sport, which gives her great insight on these topics. Thank you so much, Elaine! I contacted her earlier this year, as I am interested in positive organizational climates and reducing bullying in sport. I suggest you check out the program after you read her interview below. The work being done is very well needed!

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Arianna Merrittathletics, community, Compassion, connection, Education, goal setting, interviews, Ireland, Kindness, perseverance, Personal development, self-worth, speaking from the heart, stand tall, University of Toronto Comments
No Worries: Get Inspired by the West Coast
No Worries: Get Inspired by the West Coast

Since spending time on the West Coast, I have picked up a saying that has really manifested into my way of life.

The phrase is, “No Worries.” I find it is very commonly used in my vocabulary.

The saying reflects my laid-back west coast lifestyle. Being laid-back does not at all mean a person doesn’t work hard. The laid-back lifestyle has nothing to do with the amount or intensity of your work. Rather, it means that you don’t let small things upset you.

Someone is late or has to reschedule. Things don’t happen as planned. I say: “No Worries.”

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Arianna Merrittacceptance, beachcombing, British Columbia, community, Compassion, connection, Kindness, Lifestyle, No Worries, self-worth, sharing your story, Social support, speaking from the heart, stand tall, West Coast Comments
The Importance of Community
The Importance of Community

Many people lack authentic social connections, and mask their personal issues from others.  To enable people to share their deep personal experiences, i.e., about bullying, self-esteem, and personal development, was one of the reasons I began my blog.  I think of this blog as an online “safe haven” where people can tell others about their personal issues without worry of stigmatization. It was designed as a general forum where people in need can see others sharing their stories, and thus giving them options for seeking help rather than opting for unhealthy drastic measures.

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Arianna Merrittcommunity, Compassion, connection, Kindness, listening, Nickelback, online community, reaching out, Self-Help, self-worth, sharing your story, Social isolation, Social media, Social support, speaking from the heart, stand tallComment
THANK YOU: Acknowledging the importance of this small but powerful statement.
THANK YOU: Acknowledging the importance of this small but powerful statement.

Thank you is such a small yet powerful statement.   It should be said more often.

I will never forget the time I went out to lunch with a couple of friends, and one of my friends treated us all.  After the meal, she remarked to me that some people weren't thankful for her treat because they didn't say "thanks" to her.   This situation sticks in my head to remind me to always say "thank you" whenever someone does something nice for me or helps me out in some way.

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Arianna Merrittcommunity, Compassion, connection, courage, creativity, Facebook, Friendship, gratitude, Maui, relationships, self-worth, sharing your story, speaking from the heart, stand tall, Thank you Comment