Goodness




	I always try everyday to catch my children doing something good and thank them for it. I find it to be one of the easiest things in the world to do. I usually get to do it many times each day too, because my children are so wonderful. The main reason I do this, however, is not to reinforce their good behaviour, but rather to remind them of just how good they really are.
	Most of us never realize just how good we really are. We think that goodness is something reserved for saints and never see it within ourselves. The truth is that most of us are full of goodness, full of kindness, full of love, and full of joy. Most of us spend our days helping people, doing good things for others, and making this world a better place. Most of us live our lives doing our best to bring joy to this world, to share love with each other, and to be one with God. Most of us are far more good than we would ever admit.

	Don’t deny the goodness within you then. God loves us all. God created us all. And God doesn’t make junk. Look deep within your heart and soul and notice the goodness that lies there. See it there shining bright, bring it out, and give it to the world. Share it as you open the door for a stranger, smile at the person you pass on the street, and give a compliment to a co-worker.
	Use it as you hug your children, share a laugh with a friend, and give some of your money to help those in need. Express it as you push a child on a swing, shovel the snow from a neighbour’s driveway, and forgive someone who has hurt you. Delight in it as you pass along a kind word, share a beautiful story, and sing a lovely song. Work with it as you extend a helping hand, give someone a pat on the back, and encourage someone who is having a hard time. Rejoice in it as you use everyday to help others, use every choice to create love and joy, and use every moment to live the way that God meant for you to live.
	Joseph J. Mazzella