A friend recently reminded me of the saying: “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” I was attending an image workshop and realized how much I could do to improve my appearance. Most of you who know me realize that fashion is not high on my list of priorities, but I learned there are simple ways to improve your appearance, like darkening your eyebrows a tad if they are too light or adding a belt or a vibrant piece of jewelry to your ensemble.

It will take a while for me to apply what I learned since I don’t have a lot of discretionary income at the moment (who does?), but I look forward to buying new shoes, for example, and putting my best foot forward.

I thought a little further about the saying above and realized that the opposite is also true: “When the teacher is ready, the student appears.” See, we are teachers and students at the same time. We learn from each other, and we teach each other.  Both giving and receiving happen when they are supposed to, i.e., when we are ready to take that next leap—whether as a teacher or student.

Take a moment this month and consider how you are learning and growing. Then look around you and identify those who might be able to benefit from the lessons you’ve learned in life. Share your gifts. You’ll be surprised how many needy people there are in your midst.

Then be sure and thank those who have helped you on your way. Without friends, we often find ourselves adrift in an angry sea. Friends offer a safe harbor where we can prepare for the next leg of our journey. Thanks to all my friends for all you do. I wish you fair winds and following seas.

Love, Peggy

P.S. A Word about Advertising: When you advertise in TW, you aren’t just gaining visibility for your  business among an important demographic. You are also supporting women in the area by aligning your business with a magazine whose mission is to celebrate, inspire, and inform women. Consider spending your advertising dollars where you can make an impact on others. Thanks as always to those businesses who choose to advertise in TW!