Quote #50: Michele Horstman

Hi, my name is Michele Horstman. I am a member of the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition. A quote that is a daily reminder for me is, "Be Present, be Joyful, be Enthusiastic, and Smile.” My parents have been gone 6 and 7 years now. These are some of the virtues that come to my mind often that my parents would encourage and model in my life. A gentle reminder I would hear from them when I needed an extra nudge on how to be happy and how to be a light for others. Be present… to the person or place you are in touch with. October’s Life Hack #96, ‘See Others,’ was a reminder to me to be present to others. How uplifting I have found that to be when I feel seen, that I matter. A reminder to me to notice those around me wherever I am and whoever I am in touch with. To notice them in a caring, friendly, authentic way. Be joyful… My parents lived by example. Throughout my life, I noticed in their interactions with others that their conversations were positive, good, and constructive. Even in tough times, they would acknowledge the struggle and then keep a focus on ‘what’s good.’ As a daughter, I’d like to say that I have inherited and mastered all of these virtues, but I am still a work in progress. Thankful for friends who model and gently nudge me when I’m focused on ‘what’s wrong’ rather than changing my focus to see the many joys in life! This verse reminds me to look for the ‘good’ and see the good around me and in others. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. -Phillipians 4:8 Be enthusiastic… in all you do; do it with enthusiasm. My parents belonged to a “Small Faith Group” that met weekly throughout the year. The group was a learning, growing, encouraging, and supportive group. They shared their stories and experiences. The organizers of the group exuded infectious enthusiasm and joy. In the photos below, I see the delight that others enjoyed because these people modeled these virtues. They were present to others, expressed joyfulness and enthusiasm, and shared their smiles. This fed my parent's souls. I am so grateful for the people in my parents’ lives who brought such joy to them. and Smile .. my dad later added. I notice the lightness I feel when I see a smile. And the good feelings when I smile at another and see a smile in return. This was one of four posters my dad put together for my mom’s Celebration of Life. Meaningful to both of them. A convicting message for me. To be present, be joyful, be enthusiastic, and smile! Thankful for those who serve as an example for me, gently nudge me when I need it, and forgive me for my transgressions, as I aspire to model these virtues as well!

Inspired from Michele's parents