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I’m a believer

My son tells me that I’m a skeptic, and it’s true. I pretty much don’t believe anything anyone tells me. I don’t know why or when this happened. I blame Mr. G. Not that he’s a huge liar, but he thinks I blame him for everything anyway. So why not?

However at this time of year, when I see little kids and the wonder of the season in their eyes, I am reminded of when I was young. Before I was a skeptic. When I believed in Santa and elves and flying reindeer. Yeah, it was a loooong loooong time ago, but I still recall the joy of simply believing.

I don’t have that simple joy anymore, but there are a few things that I do believe in. Even though I am a skeptic.

I believe:

That the first snow of the season truly is magical.

In the importance of a good moisturizer.

That seventy-percent of the people you meet have good hearts.

In the necessity of dressing age and weight appropriate.

A smile and a kind word can help make someone’s day a little better.

And yes, I do believe I own the road.

Are you a skeptic? What do you believe in?

Written by Rachel Gibson

Rachel Gibson is a New York Times bestselling author, a reality t.v. junkie, and a shoe connoisseur.

Visit Rachel Gibson's website  |  Follow Rachel Gibson on Facebook


31 Comments on “I’m a believer”

  1. B says:

    You know, call me weird, a freak, whatever, but I believe in elves and Santa and flying reindeer. Okay, maybe not the Santa and reindeer part, though, up to some point, maybe that, too. But I believe in elves. Fairies. That sort of stuff.

    Seems crazy, but there just isn’t a reason NOT to believe in them. I mean, sure, I’ve never seen it, but there’s loads of micro-organisms no one’s seen that we know exist. No one’s ever seen God, if we’re going there. To me, the arguments that go like “I’ve never seen it.” and “There’s no proof they exist.” just aren’t convincing enough. I mean. the Universe is HUGE! Who’s to say there’s no elves and fairies and Santa and flying reindeer somewhere out there?

    There’s no proof any of that exist, but there’s NO proof they DON’T exist, either, so, to me, it’s a matter of choice. I choose to believe. I choose to believe because the world is a better place if you believe there’s magic in it. And prettier, too :)

  2. Sue says:

    I’m not so much skeptical as I am gullible and I have been all my life. I should know better by now when DH comes in & starts telling me some sad story; with a straight face only to have him drop a punch line on me. I get mad for a second that he’s done it again, but then I laugh and realize he teased me ’cause I’m so gullible!
    I’m like B in some ways in what I believe in. I think Santa is a magical fellow who can come down chimneys and has eight tiny reindeer who can fly around the world in seconds.
    I know a smile can go a long way to making not only other people’s days, but your own as well. I’ve always said it’s much easier to be nice than nasty.
    And Rachel, I don’t know what part of the road you think you own, but I own the other part! :D !

  3. Freshechelle says:

    I believe that being nice is a tool that some people use to get what they want. Think about all the people who don’t do what they promise, don’t do their job, don’t contribute positively to your life BUT they’re so sweet.

    You know what? Don’t ask me about by weekend or smile when you talk to me ; Do do the job you promised to do and I’ll think good things about you.

    does that make me a skeptic or a believer?

  4. JenG says:

    B, that is such a fantastic way of viewing the world. I think more people need to have your POV!

    I tend to be more of the skeptical sort but definitely won’t ruin it for the kids! Guess that comes from having a 6 yr old daughter and a few nieces and nephews too. I also agree that a smile does wonders. Will be plastering on my most pleasant smile today when I head to school to enjoy the holiday feast with my daughter’s class. Once I am done eating, I head to the kitchen and become “lunch lady extraordinaire”.

    Boy my brain isn’t working yet. I need coffee! Will be back tonight after I am finished Christmas Shopping.

    Happy Wednesday!!!

  5. Angela says:

    I believe that there is something bigger than us out there and that is pure, unconditional love.
    That’s why I believe and Santa and his reindeer and fairies, elves, and magic.
    This time of the year especially when one can see children light up with wonder and joy.
    A smile and kind word can make anyone’s day including my own.

  6. Jamie Beck says:

    There is nothing like a good moisturizer, yes. I believe that there is good in everyone, but it seems that some people refuse to show it for some reason or other. I believe that laughter is the best medicine and that when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Is that always easy? H@ll No!

    I believe that you should dress age appropiate, but there is nothing wrong with wearing sweatshirts and jeans (except at a dinner party or chuch). I don’t think I own the road, but I think that tons of other people think they do and I have to watch out for them. Walk faster when you cross the road, people!

    I also believe that Coca-Cola is the exilir of the gods, as is Mountain Dew and Double Mochas. Caffeine is good & I don’t understand those who don’t like it. If you don’t want soda – drink water – not that caffeine free diet soda. YUCK!

    Oh and about that snow? It is snowing right now. My nieces and I are supposed to go out tonight, hope it’s just flurries. I believe that a dusting of snow is great on the grass. Snow days are nice, if you have no plans that day other than work. I believe the magic in the snow is how it glistens in the lights – like fairies blessed it.

  7. LoriHandeland says:

    I thought I was a skeptic, but maybe not. I don’t have to see things to believe them. I like to have faith.

    I believe attitude is everything and that the only way to fail is to quit.

    I’m sure I’ve got a bunch more but right now I believe I need more coffee and a shower . . .

  8. TrishD says:

    I believe in Angels, karma, that we’re not the only intelligent life form out there, that bad things happen to good people, that everything happens for a reason, that everyone has a purpose in the world.

    I believe in spirits, ghosts, that everyone has a soul, that some people really are psychic.

    I also believe in second chances, that people can change, that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

    I believe that installing lights at Wrigley Field was one of the worst ideas ever, the Red Wings are a dynasty, football should be played outside in the elements not in a heat dome and I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days. (Just had to throw the Bull Durham reference in!)

  9. Michelle B says:

    I believe that when I hire you to do a job for me, paying you good money every month with tip, that you will do that job to the best of your ability. Loyalty is important as well as customer service. I believe in second chances, but don’t expect me to continue to be your customer after you have taken my good nature for granted in a big way. Can you tell I had a bah humbug experience with my hair stylist yesterday?

    I believe in Love and that you will know when the right person comes along.

    I believe that music is magical. Lifts the spirit and brings a smile.

    I believe in Guardian Angels and am thankful for mine.

  10. Julia London says:

    I believe that things are going to work out okay, regardless of what it is.

    I believe what Plato said — “be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” (or something close to that).

    I believe humor cures a lot of ills.

    I believe in the future.

  11. kris says:

    I’m a skeptic, a cynic, and everything else. but i do believe that those alpha heroes who are perfect in every way and hold their woman above all else do exist…somewhere.

  12. Pesky says:

    I’m cautiously optimistic. I like to think the best of people but I’m not naive.

    I believe that if I treat someone as I would like to be treated I have a better chance of being treated well.

    I believe that the earth is round, though there are some people I have known that have fallen off the face of the earth…

    I believe that given enough TV exposure that someone who does nothing can become famous for doing nothing. (This puzzles me…)

    I believe that truly good people don’t need to tell you that they are good people, how much they donate to charity and how morally superior they are to you.

    I believe that a friends laughter is healing.

  13. Madeline Hunter says:

    I am probably a skeptic, but in a healthy way. And deep down I am an optimist. I really think that people will be decent, and am still a little disappointed when a few prove not to be even though I know, of course, that not everyone is. All of which sounds very contradictory. Among the things I believe are that we choose to be the people we are more than popular belief gives credit these days. And I also believe that we choose how happy we will be.

  14. Rachel Gibson says:

    “I believe in long, slow, deep, soft, wet kisses that last three days.” Those kinds of kisses are pretty good, Trish D, but I believe that baby kisses are the best kisses ever. I also believe the puppy breath smells better than Chanel.

  15. Rachel Gibson says:

    Madeline, I get what you’re saying. I’m always a little shocked when people don’t act decent, too. I always believe people will do the right thing, and I’m suprised when they don’t.

    And don’t even get me started on people not doing the job they are paid to do. I live in a two year old house that has huge cracks in the stuuco because someone didn’t do his job right.

    And the one concept that is really hard for me to believe is that some people are as humorless as a stick bug. I know they’re out there, though. I’ve occasionally met them.

  16. Sheridan says:

    I am a realistic optimist. :)

    Things I DO believe in:
    that there is a sort of Christmas magic, I have experience it both from other people and within myself upon occasion.
    I am a firm believer in random acts of kindness
    I also believe that Disneyland is magical
    and I believe I am capable of pretty much anything when I set my mind to it

  17. Claudia Dain says:

    Sheridan, that’s exactly how I’ve described myself for years! A realistic optimist. I believe the best, but am not too surprised by the worst. I find I am still shocked and appalled when people swear in public, especially when there are children around.

    I believe in watching what you say, always.

    I believe in showing kindness and consideration, small doses or large.

    I believe that, no matter what is happening now, everything is going to turn out all right.

  18. TrishD says:

    Rachel, I believe my daughter’s hugs and kisses are the best! I also believe every mom feels that way about hugs and kisses from their kids.

  19. Nicole Jordan says:

    Awww, I love this blog, Rachel! And I love your take on life, lol.

    My trainer has a bumper sticker on her huge semi truck/horse trailer that says “Yes, I DO own the road.” And it’s massive enough that I would never question her belief.

    And these other beliefs are just lovely. I’ll have to think some more about what I can add.

    Right now my biggest belief is that the folks here on Mt. Oly are terrific and always make my day.

  20. Candis says:

    I am a skeptic. . .until my granddaughter wraps her arms around my neck and tells me she loves me. Then magically all my cynicism and doubt flow out of my fingertips and I am able to push away all the naughty thoughts that try to strangle my optimism.

    I believe in love. I believe in kindness. And I believe that I am truly blessed.

    If I ever doubt, all I need is a hug from that special little girl to remind me that yes, there is a Santa Claus. But he may be wearing a pair of overalls or a police uniform instead of that crazy red suit.

  21. Rachel Gibson says:

    Oh, and no matter how many times I am proven wrong, I believe that I am always right.

  22. LauraS says:

    I believe in Santa Claus as I believe he is the spirit, the joy, the mystery and excitement of the season. I love the joy in my children’s eyes as they help with the decorating and their anticipation on Christmas eve and then their joy Christmas morning. The family getting together and the phone calls made to family that are far from home. I believe in the wonder and warmth of the whole season.

  23. alyssa says:

    i believe a lot of people lie to get what they want so i trust few people yet i am disgustingly honest. yes…i know… sometimes i should say how nice you look when you ask,but come on, look in the mirror!!!!!! i believe almost all people my elder deserve my respect, just because. and a smile and wave makes someone happy as well as the one smiling and waving. i believe my grandparents are watching me from ABOVE helping to guide me, and i too believe “its my road now get off it”

  24. Karen Rose says:

    I believe in the innate goodness of people. I’d like to believe Rachel’s 70% is a little low, but I’m thinking it’s about right.

    I believe in love and mercy. Unless you hurt an innocent. Then I believe in swift punishment.

    I believe that the stove is hot. And that knives are sharp. (Especially the mandolin that sent Mr. R to the ER this morning for stitches. He’s okay now.)

    I believe a smile can light up someone’s day and a harsh word is not easily forgotten.

    I believe in saying “I LOVE YOU” to people a lot as you never know if this moment will be the last time you see them.

  25. Janae says:

    I like realistic optimist because it fits my perception as well.

    I believe that sunscreen, not diamonds, is a girl’s best friend.

    I believe in prevention – diet, sunscreen, birth control – is easier than trying to get fix things after the fact.

    I believe in being true to yourself because you’ll be happier when you are.

  26. Mikki Mouse says:

    I’m a skeptic most of the time. I try to believe that people will make the right choices. I believe that coffee was put on earth to make me a nicer person. I believe that climbing up 5 flights of stairs is better than being crammed in an elevator with 15 strangers. I believe that the perfect outfit can make you feel smart, sexy and capable when you feel anything but.

  27. Robin says:

    I’m gullible too, people can trick me easily.

    I try to believe the best in others. Sometimes, some people make it hard…but I try.

    I believe everything happens for a reason and that everything is going to be okay. Cliche or not, I just believe it.

    I believe that most of lifes lessons can be traced back to ‘The Andy Griffith Show’ (and I’m only in my early 40′s but I love that show!)

    I believe my mom was right about a lot of things she told me (that I didn’t believe before). I miss her wisdom now.

    I have a theory about books, a belief if you will: All good books will find their way to me.

    This has helped me when I’ve been searching UBS’s for out of print books when I glom an author and just HAVE TO HAVE THAT OUT OF PRINT BOOK. I’ve spent so much time and gas money searching and searching. Finally, it just hit me one day. I KNOW all good books will find their way to me. Somehow it always works.

    :)

  28. Gwynlyn MacKenzie says:

    I believe God watches out for idiots and small children. Since I know my category, I’m covered. ;-)

  29. Sabrina Jeffries says:

    I’m a skeptic about some things, but a raging optimist about others.

    I truly believe that what goes around comes around–that if you throw goodness out into the world, it will come back to you threefold. If that’s naive, then so be it.

    And like Madeline, I believe you choose to be happy and that people choose what they want to be more than we realize.

    But I also believe that genetics is an awesomely scary thing. I just think we can all learn to control our genetics, no matter how powerful it is.

    I believe most people want to do the right thing. It’s knowing what the right thing is that gives some of them trouble. They should ask me. I always know. *G*

  30. LouisaCornell says:

    Great blog, Rachel!

    I believe each of us is responsible for our own happiness. Another person can ADD to one’s happiness, but ultimately the choice to be happy is ours to make.

    I believe in dressing age and weight appropriate! Things I see at Walmart MAKE me believe it and wish it were a universal truth and law, not just a hope! Honey, just because they make it in your size does NOT mean you need to wear it!

    I believe in the power of romance novels to make a bad day better, a wounded heart heal, and a disillusioned soul believe again.

    I believe once you take a pet into your home you have made an unwritten compact soul to soul with that creature. You have made him or her a member of your family. You don’t get rid of family members because you have a baby, break up with a boyfriend, move to another city or into another house or because they have issues that need some work. It’s a commitment and it is your duty and privilege to uphold that compact unto death. They give us unconditional love and undying devotion. We owe them the same, which, when the time comes, includes a dignified death in our arms, our voice the last they hear, our touch the last they feel.

  31. LouisaCornell says:

    One more, I believe a real friend knows everything there is to know about you – the good, the bad and the ugly – and sticks with you anyway. Befriending someone for whom you have contempt because you think that person might be able to do something for you or your career in the future is not friendship. A real friend makes you smile, makes you laugh, listens to you whine and then tells you to get over it, get up and get back at it. A real friend tells you when you’ve screwed up and then stands by you when you fix that screw up. A real friend tells you when that dress makes you look fat and then helps you find one that hides all that fat! A real friend believes in you when you don’t believe in yourself. They hang on to the belief for you until you are ready to pick it up again. And you do the same for them.

    The crew here at the Goddess Blogs are real friends. We may never meet each other, but we make each other smile, listen to each other whine and when necessary tell each other to get up out of that pity party and get back at it!

    You ladies all have something that is getting rarer and rarer every day – CLASS !!