“Calvin : There’s no problem so awful, that you can’t add some guilt to it and make it even worse.”

— Bill Watterson

I “should” give more to charity.

I “should” be nicer.

I “should” volunteer more.

I “should” try to make a difference.

It is what I am “supposed” to do.

The problem with “should” is that we often rebel against that word, finding ways to avoid what we “should” be doing. We use justifications like “I don’t have time,” “I do enough,” or ” I’m too busy.” It’s a word of guilt, shame, and remorse. “Should” makes situations worse by replacing action with guilt.

But what if we eliminated the word “should” and replaced it with “want.”

I “want” to give more to charity.

I “want” to be nicer.

I “want” to volunteer more.

I “want” to make a difference.

It is what I “want” to do …

… because that is the person I “want” to be.

Yesterday’s gift of time … Less a gift of time, than just a gift. Gave a McDonald’s gift card to the gas station attendant because I wanted to. His amazing reaction was his appreciation.