People make the world go round

Look at those you love. Look at the friends you have. I'm so glad God made people. Aren't you grateful for them? We would freeze in the winter and get hot in our house if we didn't have an electrician. What if we didn't have a plumber or a carpenter?

Besides that we have ministers, teachers, firemen, policeman, doctors and nurses. I could name so many others. We truly are blessed with people helping us.

In my career of 30 years of working with people I learned important lessons in getting along. I made mistakes but I tried to learn from each one. Maybe some of the concepts I learned will help you in your day-to-day contact.

People are imperfect. Be patient. You will need others to be patient with you.

People make mistakes. Forgive them. No one is perfect.

People lose hope. Be encouraging. Encouraging words are like a refreshing rain.

People have pain. Knowing you care is a comfort.

People feel rejected. Accept them. They are made in God's image.

People have low esteem. Build them up. Find the good and you will see results.

People are lonely. Befriend them. A true friend is always there.

People have sorrow. Give a hug. A warm embrace helps heal the wounds.

People are impatient. Keep your patience. Being patient with people is a virtue.

People get angry. Speak softly. It is hard to fuss in a soft low voice.

People get into arguments. Hold your tongue. It is hard to argue in silence or in

"A soft answer turns away wrath…" (Proverbs 15:1).

People get sick. Brighten their day with your presence and cheerful words.

People need prayer. Pray for them. Prayer changes things. "When a believing person prays great things happen." (James 5:16 NCV).

People get frustrated. Understand their frustration. It's a common trait of humans.

People are hurting. Be compassionate. One never knows what the other person is dealing with. Many people are just surviving. Use your joy and enthusiasm.

People get down. Lift them up. Help them to resist self-criticizing thoughts.

People need love. Love them. Some of the hardest people to love are the ones who need it the most. Love anyway.

These tips are guaranteed for successful living. Speak life to those who cross your path today. Your words become the bridge for their success and yours. The flowers of today are the seeds you planted in all of the yesterdays.

If you can hold someone's hand or even a hug you are blessed.

Yes, people make the world go round.

Portales resident Joan Clayton is a retired teacher and published author. Her e-mail address is: [email protected]