This morning, my mom forwarded me an email. Not just any email - no funny joke or message to send it to 25 people or else. The email included a link to an online mini-movie called Parent's Wish. I was in my "work" mode so I hesitated clicking on it, but she said that it was very poignant and almost brought her to tears, so I clicked. She was right. It is poignant, and almost brought me to tears as well. Parent's Wish is a mini-movie about aging parents and the cycle of parenthood. As our parents age, they become a little more dependent and in need of our patience - just like when we were toddlers.

Most of you who know me, know that I am a devout advocate for the elderly. Bridging the generation gap is one of my passions. It's why I created Kindred Generations and Karmic Acts of Kindness! Whether you take a few moments to watch the movie or not, I'd like to share this parent's wish for all of us...

1. Respect karma. What comes around, goes around. Respect karma by treating others - your partner, parents, your kids, your neighbors, your business associates, really anyone - the same way you'd like to be treated.

2. Strive for an intergenerational lifestyle. Take your kids to a senior center. Visit a nursing home to sing songs, read books or just have a conversation. Bake cookies for an elderly neighbor. Seek out activities to bring together our youth and elderly. Equip yourself and your family with the wisdom that the elderly can pass on. (Quick tip - One of the things my kids love to do is make cards to deliver to the local convalescent center. They enjoy playing "mailman" to all the residents.)

3. Have a gratitude attitude. Be thankful and say thank you for each and everything always. Even if you are having a bad day, say thank you - thank you for the opportunity to experience life, for the opportunity to grow, for the opportunity for another day.

And with that, I'd like to say thank you to you for stopping by. As always, remember to enrich your life and inspire your imagination.

With tons of chaos and creativity (and gratitude!),
Julie Watson Smith