Thumbs Up Challenge

I started the day early with a cup of coffee. I went to the refrigerator for creamer, and on the refrigerator door was a picture of our grandson, Landon. There he is with a big smile, giving a thumbs-up. I found my creamer and gave him a thumbs-up as the door closed. I sent him my love and said a prayer for him.

Our grandson, Landon, was in his first week of Marine Boot Camp. It was not the path I would have chosen for him, but it’s what he decided. Of course, we are proud of him and support him. We honor his desire to serve.

Lately, Landon started giving a thumbs up as a greeting and farewell. I only thought about that gesture once we reviewed pictures as he prepared to leave for Parris Island. If you know Landon, you will see that gesture is a good symbol for him.

A thumbs-up is a sign of agreement or encouragement, a way of saying yes. It was the last gesture he made as he rode away from home. The simple thumbs-up gesture symbolized a challenge to live at my creative best.

I invite you to embark on a journey where a simple gesture can transform your mindset, strengthen your body, and uplift your spirit. The Thumbs Up Challenge is not just a challenge; it’s a philosophy of embracing life with a resounding “thumbs up.”

This challenge has three daily components: mind, body, and spirit. The first begins with attitude. At the start of each day, begin with a thumbs up. This is a way to express gratitude and approach the opportunities and challenges of the day positively. The second is the physical component. Each day, do something that makes you stronger and healthier. Finally, the spiritual aspect strengthens the core of who you are. Each day, find a verse or quote that inspires you.

I started my own Thumbs Up Challenge with a run. As I struggled up a hill, a school bus came by. The bus driver is a friend of mine and had his window open. As he went by, I waved, and he replied with a thumbs-up.

There it was, a sign. I smiled, thought of Landon, and picked up the pace.

Thumbs up!