Be quiet and eat your Brussels sprouts!

Be quiet and eat your brussel sprouts!!

Written by L Meldau

People often ask me what it was like growing up with two parents who are probably fonder of animals then their own spawn and my response is always the same!

“I hated it as a child, but as I am older and wiser, I am so grateful for such an unorthodox and educational upbringing.”

The reason this is always my response is that I think in today’s fast paced, consumer driven age, individuals priorities are very warped in regards to the morals and values they instill in their children.

I find it terribly sad, that children will complain instead of being grateful for what they have. The old cliché of “ Eat your vegetables, there are children in Africa who are starving”- although an extreme and often far-fetched concept does ring true in one regard.

I personally believe that being raised as a morally aware child, I have become a more charitable adult who attempts to live simply so others can simply live. I recently had an incident where I completely understood the great impact gratitude could have on one’s spirit. As a typical 20 -something female, I was being very critical toward myself about stretch marks on my leg. Stupid I know but very relevant. I immediately then caught sight of my stupid reflection in the mirror and a profound sense of shame came over me- at least I have legs and at least I have eyes and vision to see my legs! It sounds very extreme but it has definitely put things into perspective and made me more cognizant of not complaining for random unnecessary drivel when there are far huger problems in the world.

It’s nice to be nice! No bad ever came from being polite or generous.

As Woodrock’s coat of arms says: Acta Non Verba, this is so true. Be the change, actions do speak louder then words.

Pay it forward, small changes often make the biggest difference. Encourage children to give, it might not be the most pleasant of learning experiences, often emotionally draining but I guarantee they will grow up morally richer for it and be greater adults who will make the change!! Teaching children to be appreciative, show gratitude and charitable is far more beneficial then the smartest gadgets in the world!

So thank you Nicholas and Stella, I have learnt the meaning of being grateful even if the drawbacks were saliva covered shoes, furry jerseys, incessant barking and always a million sets of eyes watching me eat!

Have an uplifted day!

Until next time,

L

Oh and if you feel like being generous today, Woodrock is always in need of finances!

Woodrock Dog Rescue

Standard Bank Rivonia

Account number: 425 369 161

Savings account

Branch code: 001255

Or for our international readers- please find our PAYFAST details and link under our Facebook notes on Woodrock Animal Rescue!!

Thanks guys

X x