Want a to-do list for today? Today’s first reading from 1 Thess 5:11 has some great advice: “encourage one another and build one another up“. Sincere encouragement offers and number of benefits to the other: happiness, self confidence, resilience, and more. Offering encouragement doesn’t take a lot. It can be offered in words of praise, positive reinforcement, a verse from Scripture, or simply being there for someone when they need it. Would that we all would consistently do this for one another.
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We get lots of advice all through our lifetime. And it comes from many different venues. For example: advice on the best schools, places to live and vacation, and places to dine. If you buy a book on Amazon, watch a movie on Netflix, or do anything online, they are quick to advise you on other books to purchase, movies to watch, or what’s next in your life. Go to a brick-and-mortar book store and check out the self-help section for a universe of advice. Every aspect of our lives is a portal for advice; consider fashion advice. I have to admit I don’t pay too much attention these days. These days, my wardrobe consists of a basic brown Franciscan habit and minimal accessories – a knotted white cord to be precise. Still, it is all difficult to avoid in the course of a day. 
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