Fabulous to be female

We all know about some of the dangers of electronic media. Young people get in trouble by engaging with sexting, pornography, and, sometimes,  inappropriate relationships. In addition, many teens spend TOO MUCH time on Facebook or text messaging friends; they can't seem to focus on school work or other chores. But hold the presses! There's some good news coming out about the POSITIVE effect of electronic communication.

1. U.C. Berkeley researchers have found that text messages improve happiness, boost mood, and more. See this article for more.
2. Nancy Lublin's TED talk, Texting that Saves Lives chronicles her organization's experiences as they engage with young people via text messages. They are making a difference.
3. The new venture I'm a part of, Message a Day, is garnering positive feedback from folks who are subscribing to text message streams that are designed to help them. People are paying more attention to exercise, healthy eating, and their own mood. Bottom line? The text messages are helping them live happier and healthier lives.

So while you are worrying about the potential dangers of electronic media - pay attention to it's positive effects. Use it for good. It's like anything - when used appropriately, it can be for great good.

If you've yet to check out Message a Day, please do so. We help you meet your health and wellness goals. We have messages that can help you with these aspects of your wellness:

• mind (Happiness, Happy Kids/Happy Families)
• body (Exercise, Healthy Eating, Healthy Recipes)
• sense of self (Body-Image, Self-understanding for Teens)
• relationships (Parenting, Dating, Marriage, Marriage Prep.)
• more coming each month

I do a variety of activities in my workshops that involve pointing out the goodness in those we love. The girls and moms love those activities. Why? People like being appreciated. And we like building upon goodness. When we point it out, it grows. Goodness begets more goodness. Focusing on the positive allows the goodness in your kids to flow. Focusing on the negative causes people to shut down. Which do you want?

We can help our kids grow by pointing out where they already shine. Try it today and see what happens. The technique works with our pets too - how does your dog or your cat respond when you praise him? People are like that too. They stand up taller (the guys may even puff out their chests), smile, and become more generous when we point out their goodness. One of my favorite quotes is one by Henri Nouwen,  "Where we keep claiming the light, we will find ourselves becoming more and more radiant."  Create more radiance in your family today.

My Prayer for all Mothers for Mother's Day:

Blessed are your arms, they have cuddled, held, and nurtured life

Blessed are your feet, they have walked untold miles as you cared for your children

Blessed is your heart, it has provided the love and comfort every human needs in order to grow

Blessed be your "yes" to the countless needs of your children

Blessed be the "no" you used to set limits

Blessed are your spoken words and your silent prayers

Blessed are you

You are Mother

You are love incarnate

You are Mother

Mother: One Who Gives Life