It’s not hard to write encouraging paragraphs of “how-to’s.” They are the fruit of many personal failures to follow directions and learn from the experience of others.
Wisdom is not something I was born with – but I can recognize it sometimes, having knocked my hard head against reality too many times. So, I can come up with all kinds of verses, quotes, quips, and proverbs – lessons learned the hard way. Like this one I heard today:
Own my own part in a problem.
Well, I’d rather eat nails sometimes than do this.
But, part of being a grown-up is assessing how and what I am doing in the midst of a conflict, crisis, or, smooth sailing. Because sometimes I can be part of a good time, too. That happens most readily when I
Accept life on its own terms.
This isn’t fatalism – for acceptance is not acquiescence. It’s taking off the rose-colored glasses; laying aside whining, complaining and guilting everyone within range.
This is hard for the playwright in me who still wants to fix everything and every person so my play goes off without a hitch.
Since everybody else is busy with their own stage productions, acceptance can’t be passive; nor is it easy! It means a change of attitude and actions — mine. It is becoming willing to serve; bear with, and show thoughtfulness, understanding, and even good humor.
With acceptance often comes the opportunity to do something useful, too.
Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned. ~Peter Marshall
An ancient prayer, like this one from my friend and former pastor, is one God answers, especially when I don’t know what to do, or which way to go:
Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust.
Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
Deliver me from my enemies, O LORD!
I have fled to you for refuge.
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God!
Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground! (Psalm 143:8-10)
Praying for you and me, today dear friend: for seeking ears, listening hearts, and the courage to do the next thing!
Note to self: finding a cool quote and writing it in your journal is not a substitute for Getting. It. Done. ~Betsy Cañas Garmon, (Source)
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