1. The relationships you foster will become a mirror of the relationship you have with yourself. Francois de la Rochefoucauld said, "If we are incapable of finding peace in ourselves, it is pointless to search elsewhere." Learn to take responsibility for your own happiness and security and to treat yourself with acceptance, caring, and compassion.
2. Every person desires to be treated lovingly and simple kindness can often inspire kindness in return. Reflect on those who have made you feel most cared for and appreciated and emulate them in your interactions with others.
3. Though first impressions highlight similarities, it is often the differences between two people that make a relationship unique. Showing interest in the different cultures, beliefs, origins, and interests of your friends and loved ones can enrich and strengthen your ties.
4. Intimacy cannot thrive without contact. Making time for those important to you, even if it is simply the time spent writing a letter, demonstrates the depth of your feeling.
5. Positive thoughts and deeds inspire love, honesty, and respect. Negativity can only cause stress in relationships. Show others that you are grateful for the bounty with which you've been blessed and never hesitate to give to others.
6. Share not only the laughter, but the tears as well. In doing so, you will become richer in spirit.
7. Conflict is a natural part of all relationships. Focusing on creating a balanced compromise rather than winning or losing an argument can draw you and your friend closer together.
8. Feelings of irritation, anger, or frustration flourish when we remain silent. Give voice to your emotions as they arise using neutral, non-accusatory statements. Make your feelings clear.
9. Being hurt by someone we care for is one of life's great sorrows, but forgiveness is one of life's great joys. Practicing forgiveness eases strain on relationships that have been put to the test and will bring peace to your soul.
10. Lillian Hellman said, "People change and forget to tell each other." We often don't know we've changed though we recognize and may be hurt by changes in others. Find the underlying qualities you appreciate in those you care for and be tolerant of their evolution for everything and everyone changes with time.~ Daily OM
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i found god in myself/and I loved her/i loved her fiercely--Ntozake Shange
Wow, what a super post! Thank you so very much for that. I have printed it out and I'm not going to loose it. I simply loved "The relationships you foster will become a mirror of the relationship you have with yourself." You have given me so much to think about today. Thank you for that.
Take care and have a super day,
Carol
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
Hi Carol, I'm glad you liked it. Struck home with me, that's for sure. GOOOOOOD MORNING Phil. Well, afternoon over thar, eh?
I struggle with allowing people just to "be". I need to curb my desire to sit around waiting for them to fulfill my expectations of how I think they should be/act. The art of acceptance on any level is one I work with daily.
I cannot control others. I cannot spend my time worrying about what others think. I cannot spend my precious sobriety in meeting the demands I may think they are making on me. I don't have a single moment to spend in pouting or self pity, if I can find any way to avoid it. Why? Because God as I understand Her, has given me Life back. I am here today, not because I have some strong mental and moral character, but because I am blessed with being one of the few that is just for this day, given this gift of sobriety. And if I don't give it away, if I don't stay upfront in being here for the newcomer? I'm throwing my gift back at my Higher Power. In which case, shame on me. What is asked from us is so very simple. Be here for the alcoholic who still suffers. Keep it simple............................love wren
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i found god in myself/and I loved her/i loved her fiercely--Ntozake Shange
