We all go through periods of self reflection from time to time. Life’s journey throws us the good and the bad; how we deal with it shapes us for who we are, our character, our inner strength.
The thing is, what do you think of when you are feeling down or depressed, when you are very sad, frustrated or feel that you are lost or at a cross road and find it difficult to make a decision? Do you have a reservoir of inner strength to draw upon, an anchor or talisman to keep you grounded during a storm? Would you be able to recognize a life line sincerely given to you by a friend or relative?
I believe that you would. I believe that we are capable of being stronger and wiser than we give ourselves credit for. Have an open heart and an open mind. Trust your instincts or inner voice. Trust in God. Believe in yourself and love yourself. Trust yourself to do the right thing, always. Live a life with no regrets; we all have regrets so my advice is to please learn to forgive yourself, leave those regrets behind and move on.
When I was in my late teens, my father gave me a plaque engraved with a quote, “Success is not about never falling down, it’s about getting back up again when you fall”. It was from sharing his own painful personal experiences that helped give me perspective of my own problems, and to understand how small my problem at the time was in relation to the problems of the world or truly challenging problems other people face. There is that well known saying, which still helps to ground me sometimes, that goes along the line of ‘one should not complain about one’s old shoes, when others have no feet’.
In my 20s, a friend (C) had shared the teachings of Buddha. I think the lesson of ‘not wanting/expecting more than you have, helps make you happy (or happier)’ has helped me be content with what I have. The green eyed monster seldom stirs (if it does it is often related to others enjoying exquisite food) and it amuses me when I witness others desperately trying to ‘keep up with the Joneses’. Perhaps it is a good thing I am quite the hippy at heart *grin*.
In my 30s, when I was unhappy in a relationship that eroded my self worth, another friend (YL) invited me to church. While I was familiar with God from my time in missionary school at a young age, getting “touched” by His love helped me believe in myself again, and to ultimately leave the man whom I knew deep down I had no fulfilling future with. I am always grateful for the salvation and strength that I have found from God.
Recently my friend (M) shared a quote from William H Murray to help inspire me. I hope that it will help inspire you too.
“This may sound too simple, but is great in consequence.
Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness.
Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too.
A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way.
I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets: Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!”
Thoughts & Musings By V 