Hard work… Work hard.  This idea brings to my mind echoes of my people, my grandfathers and mothers and my dad and mom. It’s not just the sense of accomplishment that comes from reaching a goal, but also the growth experienced along the way. I hear, “Anything worth having is worth working for” “You have to work hard to get ahead” “Working hard keeps the devil away” The last one coming from my Ma Reeves, God rest her soul. The effort put into doing hard work or by working hard often leads to new skills, greater confidence, and a deeper appreciation for your journey itself. I can hear whispers from those I miss telling me that each challenge overcome provides a sense of purpose and reinforces the value of perseverance. It also makes the rewards even more meaningful as you reflect on how far you’ve come, what you have done, and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

I am an ole’ woman in my 67^th year, I am disabled, but not dead, I do more than the doctor even can explain, and I am strongly and stubbornly independent. In my mind capable of doing much more than I should or even can… Yet I do, Thank you Jesus. The hard work I do gives me satisfaction at the job well done. It also makes me feel alive, capable and to be honest a bit proud. As I said, the echoes of the ghosts of my past urge me on, when I think of them as I ponder a new task, I hear their wisdom, their advice, and there prodding telling me, “Work smart not hard” and  “A hard days work never killed anyone” and “Hard work is good for the soul.” For me a job well done makes me feel proud, I get satisfaction from keeping things up and taking care of things. Remember, I am a country woman, who has 7 acres I caretake and love. The work I do here is to respect the gift of the land, the beauty, and the place that is my home…  Taking care of it and myself here, is in itself a blessing. Fulfilled, yes, I am satisfied and happy when I have worked hard and can look about and see the fruit of my labor. The body may be tired, but the soul is good, the mind happy ,and inside I feel grateful and blessed.  Hard work is good for My Soul….