"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." -Winston Churchill

I always become a little more reflective during the New Year season and although I don't make New Year's resolutions anymore, I do like to think about life and how I'm living life. The above quote is quite fitting for me since I need to make a living and get a job. The second part is even more challenging since I am selfish by nature and not giving. I was talking to someone and he said that when we give to others we think that it drains us, but in actuality we are being filled because it gives us joy.

"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it." -Mark 8:35

They say that home is where the heart is. I have no idea who they are and I was too lazy to look it up. Anyway, there is something that always reminds me that I am back home in Chicago with my parents. It's nothing that conjures up a warm fuzzy feeling inside. I never even think about it when I'm not there. I don't miss it at all. But when I am at my parents' house, I notice and remember that I am in my childhood home.

After the warm hugs and a little chit chat with Mom and Dad, I start getting ready for bed. The cold weather in Chicago makes my body work harder to heat myself up and the early flight has worn me out. I go to the bathroom to wash up for the night - floss, brush my teeth, wash my face twice, use the toilet. As my fingers reach out for the toilet paper, I KNOW that I am home...the thin, single sheet of the not so soft Scottie Bathroom Tissue. My Dad has been buying this stuff for as long as I can remember. He is convinced that it is the best value. I have no recollection of ever using a different brand growing up. I laugh to myself because I have never bought the Scottie Bathroom Tissue for myself since I left home. Although my current roommates are far from being luxurious, we prefer the double roll of the softest variety - Charmins, Northern Quilted, etc.

Some things are better left back at home.