BASF

There is a TV commercial, usually on Sunday morning news programs for a company called BASF. Their slug line is "we don't make things, we make them better". I realize that seems obscure and odd and yet it is what they do-make things better. As I ponder those people in my life that represent the best of the best, the ones who don't make my life, they make it better, I am amazed at who and how others show up for me. I do believe that God blesses us most often through other mindful people. I also understand that being grateful to those who step up and show love and support is important. If we look closely we will see those who love us up close and those who love and pray for us from a distance. I can appreciate all who observe and have input in my life and for sure, those who make it better.

My dad, a gentle and simple man. He will never read this blog, he doesn't go for computers. He is a man who never pushes his way and yet is often focused on being charitable to those in need. he shows kindness to his family members that would tax me. That has been his modus operandi for decades. He may not know what I do day by day-yet I am stronger having had him to love and serve. He does not impose his will, he speaks simple truth and he is a man of faith. BASF.

Denny- BASF- I think there are few more committed souls on this planet who focus on improving everything they touch. She improved my office and managed it well for six years. And when I went to Iraq the first time she ran the practice, with many fine volunteers. The second time I went she did it again and took my 17 year old son into her home and family. And on top of it all she forgave my reckless behavior and words. Words and behavior that needed repentance.

Frustration and sadness can lead one to make bad choices-I did and my lessons were clear and I became a better man. Because of kindness and forgiveness from Denny, a woman who speaks the truth to my heart- BASF- She doesn't make me, she makes me better.

Examples and more examples- long suffering and working through chronic illness or hard times. We never know to what degree we can influence the lives of others, unless we mindfully seek to be kind and compassionate. I watch my friend Vince as his mind slips a bit more monthly away into Alzheimer's Disease. He has been good to me and he is his family's biggest fan. I am amazed at the indignity of aging, illness and loss of function that he is going through. I thank and honor his friendship-a BASF guy. He will be served and loved by a BASF family and a wonderful wife. What trials shall come, we do not know. I am sure that he will be loved and served as he has loved and served.

We often worry far too much about how things look in our lives. What the person drives or where they go to church. How about we focus on how it all feels. Why don't we cut to the heart of the matter and live what feels good and correct for us. When in survival mode in life-how it feels is all that matters. SO, when we get the chance to BASF someone else-tell them how they make you feel, make them feel better and richer for having known you today. We do not have to make the day, we should simply make it better. BASF!