Once we have determined what we value it is only a matter of time before our stand is challenged.  It is then, that we cross that fine line that may clearly demand some sacrifice. It is then, that we make a decision. Do we walk the walk or only talk the talk

Our ever expanding thoughts are challenged daily by the world around us. We think we are protected by our own cocoons, we try to encapsulate our world and expect that we will be protected from the reality on the outside.

We have been watching the withering of what used to be a strong American culture. For those of us on either end of political leanings, we have struggled to come to terms with our own lack of control. Unless, we have the strength and fortitude to step outside our doors and feel the real winds of our time, the real world is foreign to us.

Do we even know what our values are until they are threatened to be stripped away? How do we identify them ?  How brave are we, and how far are we willing to go to protect them ?

Trusting souls as much as we are, we were led to believe that everything will fall into place as it is meant to be. We are led  by the leaders we chose,  we voted for them believing they were of the highest integrity. A value most of us aspire to. Most of us teach our children that intergrity  is a value that we hold dear.

We are living in a world and in a time where we have abbreviated our communication. We text.blog,and twitter because  we no longer have the time to talk to one another.We have devised ways to communicate using abbreviated messages.  Abbreviated words, abbreviated feelings and abbreviated values. OMG, what are we doing ?

Still we are reaching out, as we are both the witness and victim of our times. Are we diluting the values that we have held so dear?  Are we living in real time with one another ?      

If we were using sacrifice to bear witness to our values. What might they be?  We could begin by making changes in our community and personal life? Our decisions should reinforce our values, and be the examples that we set for our children. By our example they will see that a letter or card and phone call to Grandma,  has much more meaning then the message.  “ How r u ? “  That shopping for a home bound person combined with a brief visit, is worth much more than the time spent. They would see that we contribute to the needy when the opportunities present themselves.

We need to show our children that we need to touch one another on the hand, on the shoulder, or the hug is cherished by the recipient and warms the heart of both people in real time

Encourage conversation in your home that reinforces your values. Demonstrate and encourage non judgmental living.and teach others by your example. Share with those that are less fortunate. In time your values will be the common denominator and can be a powerful witness to others.  Follow the strong among us when you feel weak. Reinforce and affirm their truth. Be proud to identify with them and walk by their side.

Is the question really do you have to make a sacrifice to show what you value ?  Or is the real question will you ?