IPOD UPDATE

I was charging my ipod this morning and decided to transfer Matt's Joel Osteen podcast. I kid you not, I need newer music too. I don't think I have updated my music on that thing in like 2 years.
Anyways, I just wanted to share the positivity I got out of it with everyone who reads this. And I wanted to pass along the challenge I am giving of myself: not to judge others, have patience, have understanding, be forgiving, be compassionate and be positive about your life.
I admit, I am no Saint when it comes to any of this. However, I have realized that I hold terrible grudges against people. Its a horrible thing and I hate having that negativity all stored up inside me. I realize it's just not healthy and I need to grow up. So there are people that have said and done extremely hurtful things. I thought I was choosing the higher ground by not responding; and in a way I think thats ok b/c there is no reason to get revenge or cause hurt to someone who is obviously dealing with their own issues inside.
I just need to pass along the message to everyone to be happy with your life. No matter what is going on. Be thankful that you are alive and experiencing what you are. Be thankful you are still here and LOVE your friends and family like there is no tomorrow. Be patient with others who are less fortunate and who do not see the light in this. Be compassionate to others who are struggling in hard economic times. Be compassionate to others who maybe made different choices than you.....do you not think they have a hard enough time being reminded of their mistakes every day?
This has just been something I feel like I need to pass along. I get so angry and frustrated when I hear of bombings, shootings, etc...Every single person on this Earth is just that: a human being. They have Mothers, Fathers, Sons, Daughters, Nieces, Nephews, Friends, Cousins, etc....just like everyone else. Maybe they are of a different religion so embrace that, accept it and learn about it. Learn about each other and different cultures (at least for the food if nothing else).
Learn to put all the negative away. There are no excuses. Like his example, Joel Osteen notes a guy who has a crippling disease, bad speech, but still goes and tries to preach the Word of God.....and I'm not for for preaching, but at least he is saying thanks to God that he is able to live and that he has the life he does. So what is your excuse for not doing so? And what is your excuse for your hatefulness, judgemental attitudes and negativity?
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend, God Bless each and everyone of you!!