It starts with a choice

When something bad happens, you have three choices.
You can let it define you, let it destroy you,
or you can let it strengthen you. ~ Anonymous

In the course of my lifetime, ‘bad’ things have happened. A decade ago my family was devastated by a drunk driving accident. Both of my parents died within a five-year span. My adult daughter and I were estranged for months. The definition of ‘bad’ is subjective, but how we choose to react to the bad something is always the same. We can allow it to 1) name the person we are (Victim, Loser, Etc.), 2) cause us to quit or give in or 3) inspire us to better ourselves. Of late, instead of using the bad things as learning tools, I emulate Einstein’s definition of insanity: Do the same thing over and over again but expect different results. It’s high time I jump off the treadmill, count my blessings and stop playing the victim.

What’s your MO when bad things happen?

[Image credit: Stuart Miles, FreeDigitalPhotos.net]

Stop the insanity

[Image credit: renjith krishnan]

Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again
 and expecting different results.
~ Albert Einstein

Ever been in that spot Einstein describes? Or perhaps known someone who complains about life, but continues on the same self-destructive or go-nowhere path? Over the years, I’ve shared some rather strong opinions in love—as well as frustration—with a few close acquaintances to no avail. However, I can’t help but wonder if my words even matter. But as soon as I question the validity or necessity of baring my heart, I know I would not be able to live with myself if I kept silent. What kind of friend, mother, daughter, sister or partner would I be? But I’m also learning it’s best to keep quiet if my words are fueled in anger or won’t build up or edify. And that perhaps I need to take my own advice from time to time. Before the insanity becomes too much.

Do you need someone to tell you to stop the insanity?