Respect

By: Donna Braymer

Copyright Harrison Daily Times
Published 12.9.08

A common word in character development for school districts is respect. It may be on everyone’s list to study, but it’s not seen inaction as often as it should be.

Some would call me “old fashioned” but I still feel people deserve respect when you call them by name. You can never go wrong calling someone, Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and then adding their last name.

If they want you to call them by their first name, they can issue that invitation. Respect can also be shown by the way you are dressed. Unless an event is listed as very casual, you should dress in your best, or at least the ‘good clothes.'

I remember when everyone had church clothes, play clothes and school clothes. If you are going into a court room, play clothes would not show the proper respect for the judge and the law.

When it’s time for a job interview, remember to show respect in how you speak, your clothing and actions. Chewing gum like a cow chews her cud does not make a good impression on a potential employer.

You can also show respect to yourself. Stay away from harmful activities, drugs and be a respectful life-long learner.




www.DonnaCBraymer.com

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Copyright Harrison Daily Times

Published 12.16.2008

One of my favorite television specials is “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Creator Charles Schultz allows the main character to express his sadness at what Christmas has become.

Charlie Brown is disappointed that the girl he cares about does not care enough to send him a Christmas card; even with lots of hints dropped her direction.

His little sister wants to write a letter to Santa demanding cash divided into tens and twenties. Even Snoopy goes crazy decorating his dog house with Christmas lights.

Upon the advice of Lucy, he gets involved in directing a play aboutthe Nativity. He is determined to share the true meaning of Christmas, in spite of everyone’s focus in other directions.

Charlie gets frustrated at the gang and ends up shouting, “Does anyone know the true meaning of Christmas?”

Linus quietly steps forward and reads the true meaning of Christmasfrom Luke, Chapter 2, of the Bible. Charlie learns commercialism cannot ruin his Christmas.

Christmas is better when we remember the first gift given. Give yourfamily the gift of your time and talents. Read a book to an elderly friend. Clean out the car or your bedroom. Share the true meaning of Christmas.

www.DonnaCBraymer.com

Compassion

Compassion

Copyright Harrison Daily Times

Published 12.2.08

The needs and suffering of others are on our minds more during the Christmas season. But compassion for others is something we can feel, and act on, at any time.

Our community is known for helping others, whether it’s gathering newtoys for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, or helping a family with items after a fire, tornado or hurricane.

The definition for compassion includes understanding the suffering ofothers and wanting to do something about it. I may not totally understand all kinds suffering because I haven’t experienced it. But I can still be involved and help someone through their situation.

We can donate a new toy. We can drop some coins or cash into the Salvation Army’s red buckets. We can volunteer our time, pick up trash and help those in need.

In the classroom, we can help someone with a project that seems overwhelming or have compassion on a new student by showing them around and introducing others.

We can invite a new friend to play onthe playground, or eat lunch with our favorite friends.

When we think about how it would feel to be in their situation, we can feel compassion. But it’s even better to do something about it.

Donna Braymer


www.DonnaCBraymer.com