Truth Be Known

"The trouble with the world is not that people know too little;

it's that they know so many things that just aren't so."

Mark Twain

Our world is increasing its pace, and information bombards us whether it is supportive or destructive. We cannot possibly absorb uncensored input with sufficient accuracy. Original facts easily become misconstrued as they filter through individual perceptions. Then there is more conflict in what is good for one person, may be detrimental to one other.

Discord cannot be avoided, but how we deal with it is a matter of choice. If we are unknowledgeable about a topic, find appropriate resources so that conversations can be extended for clarity. If we are well versed and happen to disagree, we have the right to speak our truth with gentle firmness.

There are times we assume something when we have only heard bits and pieces. Based upon our own insecurities, the emphasis may shift resulting in inaccurate interpretations. We need to ask ourselves whether or not something is true. We have the option to change our perspectives or reinforce what we hold as truth.

 

Settle Into the Self

"The worst loneliness is not to be

comfortable with yourself."

Mark Twain

Building self-esteem can feel hollow and falsely grounded.  We may not believe in the phrases we whisper to our lovely selves in hopes of feeling better about our abilities, looks, or positions in life.  A more effective approach is utilizing self-compassion.

Self-esteem tends to pump us up into who we should or could be.  It brings in thoughts of goals we are not uniquely supplied to accomplish.  When we use compassion, we are looking at our true self without urges to be someone else.  We accept and embrace who we are in preparation for life purpose.

Self-compassion is not feeling sorry for the self.  It is embracing our weaknesses as well as our strengths.  Without drama we accept reality and decide how we can best use our qualities, knowledge, and experiences to move forward.  When we love our selves in spite of imperfection, our foundation is stronger than being dependent upon the input of others. 

Greatness Resides in Everyone

"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambition.  

Small people always do that, but the really great ones 

make you feel that you, too, can become great."  

Mark Twain

We all have the ability for greatness.  Deep within, our uniqueness longs to surface out into the world in any size, shape or color.  It waits for us to believe in our special gifts and to have the creativity to use them.  Greatness is not regulated strictly to stardom, medical history or scientific discovery.  It includes:  chivalry, dignity, generosity, imagination, merit, sublimity, and worthiness.

When we experience our nugget of greatness, it is usually something we take for granted.  As it is common to ourselves, we falsely assume anyone can do that!  Our culture encourages us to be more like others, when it should be supporting individual strengths. When we add kindling to our small spark of passion, it will expand not only outside of ourselves, but it will increase our sense of self as well.

Consider the greatness of the gardener displaying extraordinary hues in the garden; the quilter arranging mismatched pieces into an heirloom; the teacher who is willing to learn from her students; the friend who nurtures the individual strengths of others; the stay at home baker providing delicacies of love for families and friends.  Greatness resides in everyone...even you!