When I was about five years old, I lived with my family in Enterprise, Alabama for a few months while my father attended an advanced aviation course at nearby Fort Rucker. What makes Enterprise, Alabama especially memorable is a strange monument they have in the middle of town. You can’t miss it. In fact, you have to drive around it because it sits right in the middle of the road. The monument is a statue to the boll weevil. It’s probably the only monument in the world erected in honor of an insect. It certainly wasn’t done because of its aesthetic value the boll weevil is a particularly ugly-looking creature. Surprisingly, it was erected because of the devastation the boll weevil caused to the cotton crops of the surrounding area! Why did they honor this pest? Well, had it not been for the boll weevil, the local economy would have continued its unhealthy dependence on its one-crop, one-product economy. Until then, everything depended entirely on cotton. When the boll weevil came, the farmers and all the other businesses that were reliant on the cotton farmers were forced to recognize the need to diversify. In the long run, they saw that the boll weevil had, in fact, done them a favor by destroying their crops. No longer were their eggs all in one cotton basket. They started raising hogs, peanuts and other cash crops, and the entire area was better off for it. I think it is to those southern farmers’ great credit that they were able to see this adversity for what it really was a great blessing. Too often, we see difficult times as something to avoid something only to endure. We usually don’t see the benefit until much later if at all. If we look back at the things in our lives that were the most trying, the most painful and frustrating, we have to admit that there was value in it (if you can’t see this, you probably aren’t seeing it from a distant enough perspective). Our lives are far more enjoyable (certainly more instructional) if we view each thing that happens to us as just that a happening. Remember, it’s not what happens to us, but our response to what happens to us that makes the difference in the quality of our lives. I believe that everything that happens can be a lesson. Next time things don’t seem to be going the way you want, ask yourself what the positive aspect is. What’s the benefit in the adversity? You’ll have greater enjoyment and learn more in the process.
“In the Indiana Jones movie, The Quest for The Holy Grail, Indy finds himself at the precipice of a bottomless chasm. On the other side of the abyss stands the sacred temple in which the cup of Christ awaits him. Indy has searched the entire world for the Holy Grail, defied all kinds rats, skeletons and villains, nearly lost his father, and risked death many times to come to this point. Now he is so close and yet so far. Standing alone, looking down into this endless gorge, he remembers the instruction that was foretold to help him when he reached this point in his journey: Faith. Indy takes a deep breath and steps out over the chasm. He sees nothing to stand on, but he decides to follow the advice to *Trust*. As soon as he leans out over the abyss, a bridge appears and he finds himself fully supported on a solid mass. The entire chasm, which seemed quite impossible to mortal eyes, was but a test of Faith. The bridge was there all along, but it could only be seen by those who stepped onto it. Faith is the vision of things unseen. Only those who see the invisible can do the impossible. Jesus instructed, Blessed are those who see and believe, and even more blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” How many bridges have you not crossed because you couldn’t see them? How can you view things differently this time and notice the hidden gold within every fear or obstacle? Will you give yourself the permission to leap across the chasm of your fears?, knowing that when you do, you’ll transform not only yourself, but your world as well? How many missed opportunities for joy and fulfilment are waiting for you, right now as you read this? Can you see the possibilities of daring to Dream a bigger Dream for yourself, your family, your community, your world? The possibilities are endless! As you become the co-creator of your world, you’ll realise how incredible your power really is. As you share your Dream with others, you’ll liberate them as well! Dare to Dream my friend, DARE to Dream! and you’ll build a bridge to your Dreams and in ways you haven’t imagined!
One day, when I was a freshman in high school, I saw a kid from my class was walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all of his books. I thought to myself, “Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.” I had quite a weekend planned (parties and a football game with my friends tomorrow afternoon), so I shrugged my shoulders and went on. As I was walking, I saw a bunch of kids running toward him. They ran at him, knocking all his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, and I saw them land in the grass about ten feet from him. He looked up and I saw this terrible sadness in his eyes. My heart went out to him. So, I jogged over to him and as he crawled around looking for his glasses, and I saw a tear in his eye. As I handed him his glasses, I said, “Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives.” He looked at me and said, “Hey thanks!” There was a big smile on his face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. I helped him pick up his books, and asked him where he lived. As it turned out, he lived near me, so I asked him why I had never seen him before. He said he had gone to private school before now. I would have never hung out with a private school kid before. We talked all the way home, and I carried his books. He turned out to be a pretty cool kid. I asked him if he wanted to play football on Saturday with me and my friends. He said yes. We hung all weekend and the more I got to know Kyle, the more I liked him. And my friends thought the same of him. Monday morning came, and there was Kyle with the huge stack of books again. I stopped him and said, “Damn boy, you are gonna really build some serious muscles with this pile of books everyday!” He just laughed and handed me half the books. Over the next four years, Kyle and I became best friends. When we were seniors, began to think about college. Kyle decided on Georgetown, and I was going to Duke. I knew that we would always be friends, that the miles would never be a problem. He was going to be a doctor, and I was going for business on a football scholarship. Kyle was valedictorian of our class. I teased him all the time about being a nerd. He had to prepare a speech for graduation. I was so glad it wasn’t me having to get up there and speak. Graduation day, I saw Kyle. He looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. He filled out and actually looked good in glasses. He had more dates than me and all the girls loved him! Boy, sometimes I was jealous. Today was one of those days. I could see that he was nervous about his speech. So, I smacked him on the back and said, “Hey, big guy, you’ll be great!” He looked at me with one of those looks (the really grateful one) and smiled. “Thanks,” he said. As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began. “Graduation is a time to thank those who helped you make it through those tough years. Your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach… but mostly your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I am going to tell you a story.” I just looked at my friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day we met. He had planned to kill himself over the weekend. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his Mom wouldn’t have to do it later and was carrying his stuff home. He looked hard at me and gave me a little smile. “Thankfully, I was saved. My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.” I heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told us all about his weakest moment.I saw his Mom and dad looking at me and smiling that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did I realize it’s depth. Never underestimate the power of your actions. With one small gesture you can change a person’s life. For better or for worse.
While waiting to pick up a friend at the airport in Portland, Oregon, I had one of those life-changing experiences that you hear other people talk about — the kind that sneaks up on you unexpectedly. This one occurred a mere two feet away from me. Straining to locate my friend among the passengers deplaning through the jet way, I noticed a man coming toward me carrying two light bags. He stopped right next to me to greet his family. First he motioned to his youngest son (maybe six years old) as he laid down his bags. They gave each other a long, loving hug. As they separated enough to look in each other’s face, I heard the father say, “It’s so good to see you, son. I missed you so much!” His son smiled somewhat shyly, averted his eyes and replied softly, “Me, too, Dad!” Then the man stood up, gazed in the eyes of his oldest son (maybe nine or ten) and while cupping his son’s face in his hands said, “You’re already quite the young man. I love you very much, Zach!” They too hugged a most loving, tender hug. While this was happening, a baby girl (perhaps one or one-and-a-half) was squirming excitedly in her mother’s arms, never once taking her little eyes off the wonderful sight of her returning father. The man said, “Hi, baby girl!” as he gently took the child from her mother. He quickly kissed her face all over and then held her close to his chest while rocking her from side to side. The little girl instantly relaxed and simply laid her head on his shoulder, motionless in pure contentment. After several moments, he handed his daughter to his oldest son and declared, “I’ve saved the best for last!” and proceeded to give his wife the longest, most passionate kiss I ever remember seeing. He gazed into her eyes for several seconds and then silently mouthed. “I love you so much!” They stared at each other’s eyes, beaming big smiles at one another, while holding both hands. For an instant they reminded me of newlyweds, but I knew by the age of their kids that they couldn’t possibly be. I puzzled about it for a moment then realized how totally engrossed I was in the wonderful display of unconditional love not more than an arm’s length away from me. I suddenly felt uncomfortable, as if I was invading something sacred, but was amazed to hear my own voice nervously ask, “Wow! How long have you two been married? “Been together fourteen years total, married twelve of those.” he replied, without breaking his gaze from his lovely wife’s face. “Well then, how long have you been away?” I asked. The man finally turned and looked at me, still beaming his joyous smile. “Two whole days!” Two days? I was stunned. By the intensity of the greeting, I had assumed he’d been gone for at least several weeks – if not months. I know my expression betrayed me. I said almost offhandedly, hoping to end my intrusion with some semblance of grace (and to get back to searching for my friend), “I hope my marriage is still that passionate after twelve years!” The man suddenly stopped smiling. He looked me straight in the eye, and with forcefulness that burned right into my soul, he told me something that left me a different person. He told me, “Don’t hope, friend… decide!” Then he flashed me his wonderful smile again, shook my hand and said, “God bless!” With that, he and his family turned and strode away together. I was still watching that exceptional man and his special family walk just out of sight when my friend came up to me and asked, “What’cha looking at?” Without hesitating, and with a curious sense of certainty, I replied, “My future!”
I have a friend named Monty Roberts who owns a horse ranch in San Ysidro. He has let me use his house to put on fund-raising events to raise money for youth at risk programs. The last time I was there he introduced me by saying, “I want to tell you why I let Jack use my horse. It all goes back to a story about a young man who was the son of an itinerant horse trainer who would go from stable to stable, race track to race track, farm to farm and ranch to ranch, training horses. As a result, the boy’s high school career was continually interrupted. When he was a senior, he was asked to write a paper about what he wanted to be and do when he grew up. “That night he wrote a seven-page paper describing his goal of someday owning a horse ranch. He wrote about his dream in great detail and he even drew a diagram of a 200-acre ranch, showing the location of all the buildings, the stables and the track. Then he drew a detailed floor plan for a 4,000-square-foot house that would sit on a 200-acre dream ranch. “He put a great deal of his heart into the project and the next day he handed it in to his teacher. Two days later he received his paper back. On the front page was a large red F with a note that read, `See me after class.’ “The boy with the dream went to see the teacher after class and asked, `Why did I receive an F?’ “The teacher said, `This is an unrealistic dream for a young boy like you. You have no money. You come from an itinerant family. You have no resources. Owning a horse ranch requires a lot of money. You have to buy the land. You have to pay for the original breeding stock and later you’ll have to pay large stud fees. There’s no way you could ever do it.’ Then the teacher added, `If you will rewrite this paper with a more realistic goal, I will reconsider your grade.’ “The boy went home and thought about it long and hard. He asked his father what he should do. His father said, `Look, son, you have to make up your own mind on this. However, I think it is a very important decision for you.’ “Finally, after sitting with it for a week, the boy turned in the same paper, making no changes at all. He stated, “You can keep the F and I’ll keep my dream.” Monty then turned to the assembled group and said, “I tell you this story because you are sitting in my 4,000-square-foot house in the middle of my 200-acre horse ranch. I still have that school paper framed over the fireplace.” He added, “The best part of the story is that two summers ago that same schoolteacher brought 30 kids to camp out on my ranch for a week.” When the teacher was leaving, he said, “Look, Monty, I can tell you this now. When I was your teacher, I was something of a dream stealer. During those years I stole a lot of kids’ dreams. Fortunately you had enough gumption not to give up on yours.” “Don’t let anyone steal your dreams. Follow your heart, no matter what.”
“no” is just a redirection, transforming missed opportunities into necessary growth and a stronger, more refined path forward
A woman came out of her house and saw three old men with long white beards sitting in her front yard. She did not recognize them. She said, “I don’t think I know you, but you must be hungry. Please come in and have something to eat.” “Is the man of the house home?” they asked. “No,” she said, “he’s out.” “Then we cannot come in,” they replied. In the evening when her husband came home, she told him what had happened. “Go tell them I am home and invite them in!” The woman went out and invited the men in. “We do not go into a house together,” they replied. “Why is that?” she wanted to know. One of the old men explained, “His name is Wealth,” said pointing to one of his friends, and said, pointing to another one, “He is Success, and I am Love.” Then he added, “Now go in and discuss with your husband which one of us you want in your home.” The woman went in and told her husband what was said. Her husband was overjoyed. “How nice!” he said. “since that is the case, let us invite Wealth. Let him come in and fill our home with wealth!” His wife disagreed. “My dear, why don’t we invite Success?” Their daughter-in-law was listening from another corner of the house. She jumped in with her own suggestion: “Would it not be better to invite Love? Our home will then be filled with love!” “Let us heed our daughter-in-law’s advice,” said the husband to his wife.” Go out and invite Love to be our guest.” The woman went out and asked the three old men, “Which one of you is Love? Please come in and be our guest.” Love got up and started walking toward the house. The other two also got up and followed him. Surprised, the woman asked Wealth and Success: “I only invited Love, why are you coming in?” The old men replied together: ” If you had invited Wealth or Success, the other two of us would have stayed out, but since you invited Love, wherever he goes, we go with him. Wherever there is Love, there is Wealth and Success!!!” “Where there is pain, we wish you peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubting, we wish you a renewed confidence in your ability to work through it. Where there is tiredness, or exhaustion, we wish you understanding, patience, and renewed strength. Where there is fear, we wish you love, and courage.” You have two choices right now: (1) Delete this; or (2) Invite Love by sharing this story. Peace to all.
Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you have power over instead of craving control over what you don’t.
There are many people who could be Olympic champions, All-Americans who have never tried. I’d estimate five million people could have beaten me in the pole vault the years I won it, at least five million. Men who were stronger, bigger and faster than I was, could have done it, but they never picked up a pole, never made the feeble effort to pick their legs off the ground to try to get over the bar. Greatness is all around us. It’s easy to be great because great people will help you. What is fantastic about all the conventions I go to is that the greatest in the business will come and share their ideas, their methods and their techniques with everyone else. I have seen the greatest salesmen open up and show young salesmen exactly how they did it. They don’t hold back. I have also found it true in the world of sports. I’ll never forget the time I was trying to break Dutch Warmer Dam’s record. I was about a foot below his record, so I called him on the phone. I said, “Dutch, can you help me? I seem to have leveled off. I can’t get any higher.” He said, “Sure, Bob, come on up to visit me and I’ll give you all I got.” I spent three days with the master, the greatest pole vaulter in the world. For three days, Dutch gave me everything that he’d seen. There were things that I was doing wrong and he corrected them. To make a long story short, I went up eight inches. That great guy gave me the best that he had. I’ve found that sports champions and heroes willingly do this just to help you become great, too.
John Wooden, the great UCLA basketball coach, has a philosophy that every day he is supposed to help someone who can never reciprocate. That’s his obligation. When in college working on his masters thesis on scouting and defensive football, George Allen wrote up a 30-page survey and sent it out to the great coaches in the country. Eighty-five percent answered it completely. Great people will share, which is what made George Allen one of the greatest football coaches in the world. Great people will tell you their secrets. Look for them, call them on the phone or buy their books. Go where they are, get around them, talk to them. It is easy to be great when you get around great people.
Change is the law of life and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.
There are many things that you can do to strengthen your relationships. Often the most effective thing you can do involves saying just three words.
When spoken sincerely, these statements often have the power to develop new friendships, deepen old ones and even bring healing to relationships that have sourerd. The following three-word phrases can be tools to help develop every relationship.
1.Let me help Good friends see a need and then try to fill it. When they see a hurt they do what they can to heal it. Without being asked, they jump in and help out.
2. I understand you. People become closer and enjoy each other more when the other person accepts and understands them. Letting your spouse know – in so many little ways – that you understand them, is one of the most powerful tools for healing your relationship. And this can apply to any relationship.
3. I respect you Respect is another way of showing love. Respect demonstrates that another person is a true equal. If you talk to your children as if they were adults you will strengthen the bonds and become closer friends. This applies to all interpersonal relationships.
4. I miss you. Perhaps more marriages could be saved and strengthened if couples simply and sincerely said to each other “I miss you.” This powerful affirmation tells partners they are wanted, needed, desired and loved. Consider how important you would feel, if you received an unexpected phone call from your spouse in the middle of your workday, just to say “I miss you.”
5. Maybe you’re right. This phrase is very effective in diffusing an argument. The implication when you say “maybe you’re right” is the humility of admitting, “maybe I’m wrong”. Let’s face it. When you have an argument with someone, all you normally do is solidify the other person’s point of view. They, or you, will not likely change their position and you run the risk of seriously damaging the relationship between you. Saying “maybe you’re right” can open the door to explore the subject more. You may then have the opportunity to express your view in a way that is understandable to the other person.
6. Please forgive me Many broken relationships could be restored and healed if people would admit their mistakes and ask for forgiveness. All of us are vulnerable to faults, foibles and failures. A man should never be ashamed to own up that he has been in the wrong, which is saying, in other words, that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.
7. I thank you. Gratitude is an exquisite form of courtesy. People who enjoy the companionship of good, close friends are those who don’t take daily courtesies for granted. They are quick to thank their friends for their many expressions of kindness. On the other hand, people whose circle of friends is severely constricted often do not have the attitude of gratitude.
8. Count on me A friend is one who walks in when others walk out. Loyalty is an essential ingredient for true friendship. It is the emotional glue that bonds people. Those that are rich in their relationships tend to be steady and true friends. When troubles come, a good friend is there indicating “you can count on me.”
9. I’ll be there If you have ever had to call a friend in the middle of the night, to take a sick child to hospital, or when your car has broken down some miles from home, you will know how good it feels to hear the phrase “I’ll be there.” Being there for another person is the greatest gift we can give. When we are truly present for other people, important things happen to them and us. We are renewed in love and friendship. We are restored emotionally and spiritually. Being there is at the very core of civility.
10. Go for it We are all unique individuals. Don’t try to get your friends to conform to your ideals. Support them in pursuing their interests, no matter how far out they seem to you. God has given everyone dreams, dreams that are unique to that person only. Support and encourage your friends to follow their dreams. Tell them to “go for it.” B o n u s :
11. I love you Perhaps the most important three words that you can say. Telling someone that you truly love them satisfies a person’s deepest emotional needs. The need to belong, to feel appreciated and to be wanted. Your spouse, your children, your friends and you, all need to hear those three little words: “I love you.” Love is a choice. You can love even when the feeling is gone.
Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.
At the beginning of my 8:00 a.m. class one Monday at University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), I cheerfully asked my students how their weekend had been. One young man said that his weekend had not been very good. He’d had his wisdom teeth extracted. The young man then proceeded to ask me why I always seemed to be so cheerful. His question reminded me of something I’d read somewhere before: “Every morning when you get up, you have a choice about how you want to approach life that day,” I said to the young man. “I choose to be cheerful”. “Let me give you an example,” I continued.
The other sixty students in the class ceased their chatter and began to listen to our conversation. “In addition to teaching here at UNLV, I also teach out at the community college in Henderson, about seventeen miles down the freeway from where I live. One day a few weeks ago I drove those seventeen miles to Henderson. I exited the freeway and turned onto College Drive. I only had to drive another quarter-mile down the road to the college. But just then my car died. I tried to start it again, but the engine wouldn’t turn over. So I put my flashers on, grabbed my books, and marched down the road to the college.
“As soon as I got there I called AAA and asked them to send a tow truck. The secretary in the Provost’s office asked me what had happened. ‘This is my lucky day,’ I replied, smiling. “‘Your car breaks down and today is your lucky day?’ She was puzzled. ‘What do you mean?’
“‘I live seventeen miles from here.’ I replied. ‘My car could have broken down anywhere along the freeway. It didn’t. Instead, it broke down in the perfect place: off the freeway, within walking distance of here. I’m still able to teach my class, and I’ve been able to arrange for the tow truck to meet me after class. If my car was meant to break down today, it couldn’t have been arranged in a more convenient fashion.’ “The secretary’s eyes opened wide, and then she smiled. I smiled back and headed for class.” So ended my story to the students in my economics class at UNLV.
I scanned the sixty faces in the lecture hall. Despite the early hour, no one seemed to be asleep. Somehow, my story had touched them. Or maybe it wasn’t the story at all. In fact, it had all started with a student’s observation that I was cheerful. A wise man once said, “Who you are speaks louder to me than anything you can say.” I suppose it must be so.
Author: Lee Ryan Miller – story from his book “Teaching Amidst the Neon Palm Trees”
Positive anything is better than negative nothing.
A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door. “Daddy, may I ask you a question?” “Yeah sure, what is it?” “Daddy, how much do you make an hour?” “That’s none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?” the man said angrily. “I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?” pleaded the little boy. “If you must know, I make Rs.50 an hour” “Oh, “the little boy replied, with his head down. Looking up, he said, “Daddy, may I please borrow Rs.20?”. The father was furious, “If the only reason you asked is that you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. I work long hard hours everyday and don’t have time for such childish behavior.” The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door. After an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to feel bad on being a little hard on his son. May be there was something he really needed to buy with that twenty rupees. The man went to the door of the little boy’s room and opened the door. “Are you asleep, son?” he asked. “No Daddy, I’m awake,” replied the boy. “I’ve been thinking, may be I was too hard on you earlier,” said the man. “It has been a long tiring day, and I vent out my frustration on you. Here’s that Rs.20 you asked for.” The little boy sat straight up, smiling. “Oh, thank you Daddy!” he yelled. Then reaching under his pillow he pulled out some money. The man, seeing that the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money. “Why do you want more money if you already have some?” the father grumbled. “Because I didn’t have enough, but now I do.” The little boy replied. “Daddy, I have Rs.50 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you”. Children are the mirror of parents. The heart has its reasons that Reason knows not of.
Be enough for yourself first. The rest of the world can wait.
A middle-aged widow lived with her 12-year-old son. One evening after returning from office, she went to her son’s room and sat next to him. Very excitedly she said, “Today, when I was working in our office, one of our regular clients came to me and said that she admired me and gave me a rose for being so sensitive to the needs of others and for being such a caring and considerate person. The card on the rose says,’ Who I am makes a difference.’ Then she gave me an extra rose with a card and asked me to gift it to somebody else whom I know as a similarly caring and loving person. As I was coming home tonight, I started thinking about whom to gift it. I started remembering you continuously and so I decided to gift this rose to you”. “Generally, I am very busy, and am not able to give you proper and enough attention. Sometimes, I scold you for not getting good grades in exams and for not taking care of your things. But today somehow, I realized you are a very important part of my life. You make a very big difference in my life. I love you very much”. The boy was startled and started crying. His whole body shook and he looked up at his mother and said, “From many days I felt like committing suicide because I thought you didn’t like me. But now I don’t need to do that.”
“Thinking is the hardest work there is, which is probably the reason why so few engage in it.”— Henry Ford
Henry Ford hired an efficiency expert to go through his plant. He said, “Find the nonproductive people. Tell me who they are, and I will fire them!”
The expert made the rounds with his clipboard in hand and finally returned to Henry Ford’s office with his report. “I’ve found a problem with one of your administrators,” he said. “Every time I walked by, he was sitting with his feet propped up on the desk. The man never does a thing. I definitely think you should consider getting rid of him!” When Henry Ford learned the name of the man the expert was referring to, Ford shook his head and said, “I can’t fire him. I pay that man to do nothing but think – and that’s what he’s doing.”
Stay afraid, but do it anyway. What’s important is the action. You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it and eventually the confidence will follow.
Sometimes when nothing goes just right
And worry reigns supreme, When heartache fills the eyes with mist And all things useless seem, There’s just one thing can drive away The tears that scald and blind — Someone to slip a strong arm ’round And whisper, “Never mind.”
No one has ever told just why Those words such comfort bring; Nor why that whisper makes our cares Depart on hurried wing. Yet troubles say a quick “Good-day,” We leave them far behind When someone slips an arm around, And whispers, “Never mind.”
But love must prompt that soft caress- That love must, aye, be true Or at that tender, clinging touch No heart ease come to you, But if the arm be moved by love, Sweet comfort you will find When someone slips an arm around, And whispers, “Never mind!”
One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again.
Years ago in Scotland, the Clark family had a dream. Clark and his wife worked and saved, making plans for their nine children and themselves to travel to the United States. It had taken years, but they had finally saved enough money and had gotten passports and reservations for the whole family on a new liner to the United States.
The entire family was filled with anticipation and excitement about their new life. However, seven days before their departure, the youngest son was bitten by a dog. The doctor sewed up the boy but hung a yellow sheet on the Clarks’ front door. Because of the possibility of rabies, they were being quarantined for fourteen days.
The family’s dreams were dashed. They would not be able to make the trip to America as they had planned. The father, filled with disappointment and anger, stomped to the dock to watch the ship leave – without the Clark family. The father shed tears of disappointment and cursed both his son and God for their misfortune.
Five days later, the tragic news spread throughout Scotland – the mighty Titanic had sunk. The unsinkable ship had sunk, taking hundreds of lives with it. The Clark family was to have been on that ship, but because the son had been bitten by a dog, they were left behind in Scotland.
When Mr. Clark heard the news, he hugged his son and thanked him for saving the family. He thanked God for saving their lives and turning what he had felt was a tragedy into a blessing.
The Winner is always a part of the answer; The Loser is always a part of the problem. The Winner always has a program; The Loser always has an excuse. The Winner says, “Let me do it for you;” The Loser says, “That’s not my job.” The Winner sees an answer for every problem; The Loser sees a problem in every answer.The Winner says, “It may be difficult but it’s possible;” The Loser says, “It may be possible but it’s too difficult.”
“A hug is a universal medicine; it is how we handshake from the heart.” — Anonymous
You can embrace the boundless potential within you to transform the world through your empathy and compassion.
I remember a quote long ago from Peaceful Warrior:
“The ones who are hardest to love are usually the ones who need it the most.” — Dan Millman
It was a simple reminder that those who may appear difficult to love or understand often have deep-seated pain, struggles, or unmet needs.
And the best thing we can do is extend love and understanding.
If we commit to treating people with love and understanding, we become catalysts for positive change and sources of inspiration for those around us.
It’s in our everyday encounters we have the extraordinary power for extraordinary transformations.
How These Quotes Can Transform You
It’s in the quiet moments of reflection that these quotes truly come alive.
As you go about your daily life, let the essence of these quotes permeate your thoughts, your actions, and your relationships.
Embrace the power within you to be the change you wish to see in the world.
Use your power to make someone’s day.
Let’s cultivate compassion, one interaction at a time.
Whether it is a smile shared with a stranger, a listening ear offered to a friend in need, or a kind gesture extended to someone who least expects it—every act of love and understanding ripples out into the world, creating a cascade of positive transformation.
As you navigate the complexities of human connection, remember that change begins with you.
Embrace the beauty of our shared humanity and honor the unique stories and struggles of those around you.
Treat each person with the dignity and grace they deserve, recognizing that we are all on this journey together.
With that in mind, here are 21 quotes that will change how you treat people…
1. “When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself.” — Wayne Dyer
The quote highlights a profound truth: when we judge others, we unveil our own inner landscape more than we define them. It illuminates the fact that our judgments are mirrors reflecting our unique perspectives, biases, and beliefs.
Rather than providing an accurate portrayal of the person being judged, our judgments expose the contours of our own mindset, values, and preconceived notions.
This revelation compels us to contemplate the far-reaching consequences of passing judgment and prompts us to confront the potential biases and limitations that shape our perceptions.
In essence, this quote urges us to reflect on ourselves and be more aware. It encourages us to treat others with empathy and understanding, avoiding quick judgments and harsh evaluations based on our own biases.
By doing this, we can build authentic connections and navigate the intricacies of human interactions with more compassion and wisdom.
2. “We can never judge the lives of others because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation.” — Paulo Coelho
This quote speaks to a specific truth: each person intimately knows their own pain and sacrifices, making it impossible for us to truly understand and judge their experiences.
It serves as a reminder to refrain from passing judgment or making assumptions about others’ lives. We cannot fully comprehend the depth of their personal struggles and the sacrifices they have made. It calls for empathy and respect, acknowledging that everyone carries their own unique burdens.
In essence, this quote urges us to approach others with humility and compassion, recognizing that we can never fully grasp the extent of their pain and renunciation.
It prompts us to foster a mindset of understanding, appreciating the complexity of individual experiences and offering support rather than judgment.
3. “The most memorable people in your life will be the ones who loved you when you were not very lovable. Remember this, and return the favor.” — H. Jackson Brown Jr.
As a reminder of the profound impact that unconditional love and support can have on our lives, this quote prompts us to acknowledge and reciprocate the kindness extended to us during our least lovable moments.
It highlights the significance of fostering a cycle of love, compassion, and gratitude, where we appreciate and return the favor of those who have been there for us through thick and thin.
4. “The way we treat people we strongly disagree with is a report card on what we’ve learned about love, compassion, and kindness.” — Marc Ian Barasch
Treating those we strongly disagree with is a measure of our mastery over love, compassion, and kindness. It reveals the depth of our personal growth and our ability to empathize with others.
Through respectful and compassionate interactions, even amidst disagreement, we embody the essence of empathy and understanding.
Such qualities pave the way for meaningful dialogue and nurturing relationships.
5. “There is a story behind every person. There is a reason why they are the way they are. Think about that, and respect them for who they are.” — Ziad K. Abdelnour
The quote is a reminder that we should not judge people based on their appearance or behavior.
Everyone has a story, and we should try to understand their experiences before we make assumptions about them.
When we respect people for who they are, we create a more compassionate and understanding world.
6. “Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.” – Mother Teresa
Mother Teresa’s quote encapsulates a profound truth: we don’t have to wait for others to take action or make a difference.
We each have the power to create change on our own, through personal, direct interactions with others.
In its simplicity, the quote reminds us that we don’t need to rely solely on leaders or institutions to initiate positive transformations.
We can start by making a difference in our own circles, one person at a time.
Our individual actions, no matter how small, hold the potential to create a ripple effect that can bring about significant impact.
Mother Teresa’s words inspire us to take ownership of our ability to make a difference.
By engaging with others in meaningful ways, offering kindness, support, and compassion, we can create a world where positive change is driven by personal initiative.
7. “If you have the power to make someone happy today, do it. The world needs more of that.” — Steve Maraboli
If you possess the ability to bring joy to someone’s day, seize the opportunity.
The world yearns for such acts of kindness.
8. “Set an example. Treat everyone with kindness and respect, even those who are rude to you — not because they are nice, but because you are.” — Jonathan Lockwood Huie
Lead by example. Choose to treat everyone with kindness and respect, even those who are rude to you.
Not because they deserve it, but because it’s a reflection of who you are. Your actions define your character and the way you navigate the world.
By consistently embodying kindness and respect, regardless of others’ behavior, you create a powerful ripple effect of positivity.
This approach sets a standard for others to follow and contributes to a more compassionate and harmonious environment.
9. “In a relationship, the little things often mean the most. Today, just be 100% present with those you love. BE ALL THERE. That is enough.” — Rachel Macy Stafford
Embrace the power of the little things in your relationships. Today, give your loved ones the priceless gift of your unwavering presence.
Be there, truly there. It’s a simple yet profound act that carries immense significance.
Being fully present has the potential to create a lasting impact and bring genuine fulfillment to both you and those you cherish.
10. “We all take different roads seeking fulfillment and joy. Just because someone you love isn’t on your road doesn’t mean they’re lost.” — Dalai Lama
The quote highlights the importance of recognizing that each person embarks on their own distinctive path in life.
It reminds us that just because someone we care about is following a different course than our own, it doesn’t imply they are lost or making incorrect choices.
This insight underscores the significance of embracing acceptance and understanding, acknowledging that diverse journeys towards fulfillment and happiness exist. It encourages us to honor and empower others by respecting and supporting their individual choices and experiences.
11. “It’s OK to be angry. It’s never OK to be cruel. In disagreements with others, deal only with the present situation. Don’t bring up the past.” — Pema Chödrön
This quote urges us to handle conflicts with compassion, acknowledging the validity of anger, condemning cruelty, and maintaining a present-focused approach to foster constructive resolutions.
Embrace anger’s validity: Recognizing anger as a natural emotion, the quote validates its presence in specific situations. It normalizes the experience of anger and implies that it is acceptable to feel this way at times.
Reject cruelty: While anger is acknowledged, the quote firmly denounces cruelty as unjustifiable. It underscores the significance of treating others with respect and empathy, even when confronted with disagreements or conflicts.
Anchor in the present: The quote advises focusing on the current situation when resolving conflicts. By shifting attention to the immediate issue, it encourages individuals to refrain from dredging up past grievances or needlessly escalating the dispute.
12. “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” — Robin Williams
This quote emphasizes the importance of kindness and empathy.
It reminds us that each person we encounter is facing their own challenges and struggles, and by being kind, we can make a positive impact in their lives.
By choosing to focus on the good in others and treating them with kindness, we indirectly amplify their strengths and provide support and encouragement.
13. “A moment of hate can devastate a lifetime of work, whereas a moment of love can break barriers that took a lifetime to build.” — Nelson Mandela
Hate and love wield immense power, capable of shaping our lives and those around us.
A mere moment of hate can shatter bonds, wreck careers, and unleash violence.
However, a single moment of love possesses the potential to heal, bridge divides, and forge a world rooted in justice and compassion.
This quote demands a crucial choice: love or hate? Opting for love is to actively build a better world, one that embraces growth and understanding.
It’s a deliberate commitment to nurturing relationships, fostering empathy, and leaving a profound impact.
Let’s choose love, because it’s in that choice that the transformative power lies to shape our destiny and create a brighter tomorrow.
14. “If you take everything personally, you’ll remain offended for the rest of your life. What other people do is often because of them, not you.” — Miguel Ruiz
It is a reflection of the teachings found in his book, “The Four Agreements.”
People’s behaviors and actions are often a result of their own personal issues and experiences, rather than being a direct reflection or criticism of us.
When we take things personally, we sentence ourselves to a lifetime of offense.
The truth is, people’s actions often stem from their own baggage, not a direct indictment of us.
Understanding this frees us from the chains of offense and allows us to see the deeper complexities at play. It’s not personal; it’s a reflection of their journey, not ours.
15. “Be thankful for all the rude, obnoxious, and difficult people you meet in life too. They serve as important reminders how NOT to be.” — Ty Bennett
The quote serves as a potent reminder that our negative experiences hold valuable lessons.
When faced with rude, obnoxious, and difficult individuals, we gain insight into what behaviors to avoid.
We learn the importance of cultivating patience, understanding, and compassion.
It highlights the power of choice in our reactions to people and circumstances.
We can succumb to anger, resentment, and bitterness, or we can embrace gratitude for the chance to evolve and develop.
The quote inspires us to harness these encounters as catalysts for personal growth and to cultivate a mindset of learning and appreciation.
16. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
This quote has the potential to inspire a transformative shift in how we treat people. It encourages us to take personal responsibility for the change we desire, rather than waiting for others to initiate it.
Here’s how it can influence our actions:
Self-reflection: The quote prompts us to reflect on the values, qualities, and behaviors we wish to see in the world. It encourages us to examine our own attitudes and actions, identifying areas for improvement.
Leading by example: By embodying the change we want to see, we become role models for others. Our actions speak louder than words, and when we consistently demonstrate kindness, compassion, and respect in our interactions with others, we inspire them to follow suit.
Taking initiative: The quote instills a sense of personal agency and empowerment. It motivates us to proactively initiate positive change in our relationships and communities, rather than waiting for others to do so. We become active participants in creating a more harmonious and inclusive environment.
Cultivating empathy: When we strive to be the change we desire, we develop a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of others. This cultivates empathy and compassion, enabling us to relate to others on a more profound level and treat them with greater understanding and respect.
Ripple effect: Our actions can have a ripple effect, influencing and inspiring those around us. By embodying the change we wish to see, we create a positive impact that extends beyond our immediate interactions, potentially inspiring others to adopt similar behaviors and attitudes.
17. “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” — Luke 6:31
Known as the “Golden Rule,” this quote promotes treating others with kindness, respect, and empathy.
It emphasizes the importance of considering how we would like to be treated and extending that same treatment to others.
By emphasizing the importance of considering how we would like to be treated, the quote guides us to place ourselves in the shoes of others. It prompts us to think about our own needs, desires, and feelings, and use that as a compass for how we interact with and treat others.
By following the “Golden Rule,” we foster stronger connections, build trust, and contribute to the well-being and happiness of those around us.
It encourages us to treat others not only with the consideration we desire but also with a genuine desire to uplift and support them.
18. “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
The essence of this quote by Maya Angelou is that the lasting impact we have on others is not determined by the words we say or the actions we take, but rather by the emotions we evoke within them.
It emphasizes that the way we make people feel has a profound and enduring effect.
And it far surpasses our words or deeds.
This quote serves as a reminder to prioritize empathy, kindness, and compassion in our interactions with others, as those emotional connections are what leave a lasting imprint on their hearts and memories of the people whose lives we touch.
19. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s quote captures a profound truth: by selflessly serving others, we can discover our true selves and experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
It highlights the transformative power of dedicating ourselves to the well-being and lifting up others.
When we shift our focus from self-centered pursuits to acts of service, we transcend our ego and connect with something greater than ourselves. By losing ourselves in the service of others, we let go of self-interest and tap into our innate capacity for compassion, empathy, and kindness.
In this act of selflessness, we find that our own personal growth and self-discovery naturally unfold. We gain a clearer understanding of our values, strengths, and passions.
By contributing to improving others’ lives, we align ourselves with a higher purpose and experience a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond personal gain.
Gandhi’s quote reminds us that the path to self-discovery is not in a solitary quest for individual fulfillment, but in reaching out to others and making a positive difference.
It challenges us to embrace service as a means to understand ourselves better and find a deeper sense of meaning and authenticity in our lives.
20. “Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” — Mark Twain
Twain’s quote reminds us that kindness holds immeasurable power to bridge divides, heal wounds, and bring people together in a way that surpasses any spoken or visual language.
Mark Twain’s quote encapsulates the universal power of kindness. He suggests that kindness is a form of communication that transcends barriers of language, ability, and perception. He also emphasizes that acts of kindness can be understood and appreciated by everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or limitations.
In its simplicity, this quote reminds us that kindness holds a profound impact. It’s a language that doesn’t require words or visual cues. Instead, it flows from the depths of our hearts. Kindness is a powerful force that can be felt and recognized by anyone, resonating deeply within the human spirit.
21. “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” — Dalai Lama
Well, imagine that. Compassion spreads happiness from the inside out.
In this simple yet profound statement, the Dalai Lama highlights that true happiness comes from cultivating a compassionate mindset and engaging in compassionate actions.
By extending kindness, understanding, and empathy towards others, we contribute to their well-being and create a positive ripple effect that can lead to their happiness.
Dalai Lama’s quote is a powerful reminder of the reciprocal relationship between happiness and compassion. It suggests that if we desire happiness for ourselves and others, it’s essential to practice our compassion for others (and ourselves).
The World is Waiting for Your Kindness
Let these 20 quotes sink deep into your heart and guide your interactions with others.
Treat people with empathy, respect, and kindness.
Remember that even small acts of love and understanding can create a ripple effect of positive change. Embrace the power you have to make a difference, and let your actions inspire those around you.
The world is waiting for your compassionate touch.
Together, let’s create a more compassionate world, one person at a time.
Claim Your Freedom Freedom is not a destination. It’s a journey. You need to be free to choose the right road for yourself. The right road is the one that leads to your best. All that matters is that you end up a free person – free to decide where you want to go and how you intend to get there. The method is simple: act freely and freedom will be yours. Because being free is being real, if you want to be free, you need to make friends with the truth. No matter how clearly you can point to forces blocking you, the most important obstacles to you freedom are within. You are the one who permits obstacles to block your path. While being stuck is frustrating, it also keeps you from risking, safe from failure and from discovering your weaknesses and shortcomings. Your prison is always your choice. To break free, you have to give up whatever security being bound offers. You should be able to face the present without the emotions of the past intruding. In the end you’re only as free as you are in your heart. Your freedom lies just behind your forgiving. When you free yourself, you also free the world.I am free. I declare It.
Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still.
Today Mend a quarrel. Search out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a love letter. Share some treasure. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in a word or deed. Keep a promise. Find the time. Forego a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Listen. Apologize if you were wrong. Try to understand. Flout envy. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Appreciate, be kind, be gentle. Laugh a little more. Deserve confidence. Take up arms against malice. Decry complacency. Express your gratitude. Worship Allah.
Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love. Speak it again. Speak it still again. Speak it still once again.
Resilience is how high you bounce when you hit bottom
Take a couple of whole months, clean them thoroughly of all Bitterness, Rumors, Hate and Jealousy; in other words, make them as fresh and as clean as possible.
Now cut each month into 28, 30 or 31 different parts…
But don’t make up the whole batch at once..
Instead prepare it One Day At A Time.
Mix well each day:
One part of Faith,
One of Patience,
One of Courage,
One of Work,
Add one part each of:
Hope,
Faithfulness,
Generosity
Kindness;
Blend with:
One part Prayer,
One part Meditation
Good Deeds.
Season the whole with:
a dash of Good Spirit,
a sprinkle of Fun,
a pinch of Play
a cupful of Good Humor.
Pour all of this into a Vessel Of Love,
Cook thoroughly over Radiant Joy
Garnish with Smiles
serve with Quietness, Unselfishness and Cheerfulness
