Nice? Me?

I have received the most unexpected compliment. Christina at Confessions of a Hot Carmel Sundae nominated me for the Nice Matters award. I have not thought of myself as nice - in fact, I struggle with what I think about other people. Maybe that struggle comes out in a postive way in some of my posts. I must say that Christina is one of the people I would nominate if she had not done so to me first. Well, here are the rules as posted at Confessions... "This award is for those bloggers who are nice people; good blog friends and those who inspire good feelings and inspiration. Also for those who are a positive influence on our blogging world. Once you’ve been awarded please pass on to seven others whom you feel are deserving of this award." I do appreciate the honor of being able to compliment seven blogs that have inspired me (I have latched onto the inspiration and positive influence aspects). I have no idea if you have been nominated before. If you have, I second it: Deb at Ukok's Place. It is so clear that people and relationships are important to Deb. She has a powerful story, but instead of letting it make her bitter she has let it turn her into the caring person she is. Barb at SFO Mom. Barb is an inspiration. Her blog focuses on the important things - family and faith. And her good natured attitude comes through. I think she embodies the Franciscan principles quite clearly. Jerry at My Autistic Boy And Other Adventures In Fatherhood. I don't think Jerry will pass this one on, and I bet he doesn't see himself as nice. But when you read his blog, you can see a man who cares deeply for his family, who would do anything for those he loves. I think it is well worth the award. Amber at This Catholic Journey. Amber's journey into the Church and her struggle with her family have been inspirational to me. I remember as Holy Saturday approached in April, keeping her at the front of our intentions during our family's rosary. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of her circle. Jay at Pro Ecclesia*Pro Familia*Pro Civitate. Jay typically is a great source for political, legal, historical, and commentary from a perspective I enjoy reading. Why he gets this nomination, though, is his respect for the Church and his rule about not criticizing the hierarchy. I know it is hard to not follow that rule (I have regretfully participated), his example inspired me to adopt that rule and you won't be seeing hierarchy criticism on my blog. Though, like Jay, I will still point out those I think outstanding. Fr. Powell at Domine, da mihi hanc aquam! Have you read his homilies? If you have, then you know why he is inspirational. If you haven't, you need to. Dadwithnoisykids at Scorpion Stalking Duck. Dadwithnoisykids has 12 children, and another on the way. I remember when Catholic Dads started he commented on being sorry that he and his wife were nearing the end of child bearing years. I find that inspiring, not to mention with 12 (13) kids, I suspect patience, humility and opportunities to offer up suffering are easier to come by. All that and still have a sense of humor...?