Sunday, April 15, 2007
How Do Those Cement Boots Fit?
Sometimes it is all too easy to blame what goes wrong in our lives on past events and people rather than take responsibility as the sole creator of our own reality.
I raise my hand and admit that I used to blame whatever went wrong in my world on my family, the way I was raised, and the experiences I had growing up. As a matter of fact, when something would go wrong I would say something along the lines of, “If only my mom…” or “If only my dad…” It was not until I was hit upside the head by a 2x4 that I realized how much I used the past as a pair of cement boots to hold me back.
That 2x4 looked something like this, “Pam, are you an adult?” “Yes”, was my answer. “Then when are YOU going to start taking responsibility for you and your own actions?”
I was reminded of that 2x4 just this past week when faced with some issues from the past. Rather then put on those cements boots, I took the opportunity to learn. I realized that my past has taught me some very valuable lessons… Lessons that I am grateful for and use as forward moving running shoes rather than a pair of cement boots.
Rather than look for all that was wrong, why not look for the positives?
Rather than complain about what was lacking, why not look at all the things to be grateful for?
Rather than focus on shortcomings of others, why not look for strengths?
Isn’t it time to walk or run unencumbered?
Posted by Pam at 4:08:49 PM in Quotes with Impact (30) | Permalink | Comments (4)
Comments
I still find myself playing the victim at times. Now, though, I welcome that because it shows where I can make improvements in areas that have been hidden or ignored up till that point.It's all in the choices we make, eh?
Posted by Steve on 22/04/2007
Yes, yes, yes, Pam! This is such a great reminder! I've been thinking about the same topic recently, wondering why some people choose the cement boots when there is a much easier and happier way to see the world. I'm also reminded that the only way I can change the world is to change myself. I, like you, have chosen to leave the cement shoes behind. I also know there is no way I can keep those boots off without the support of my amazing posse (that's what I call my fellow travelers on this wonderful journey). In "The Radical Edge," Steve Farber reminds us to never - never, ever - try to change the world alone. That's why I'm so dedicated to the Bigger Small Talk Summit - a great opportunity to connect with others who share that passion. I can't wait to see you there!Posted by Jodee Bock on 22/04/2007
Steve, you are so right about it being in the choices we make. I love the fact that you use the times when you feel you are a victim as a time to learn and make improvements. That is awesome!! Something we can all remember.Jodee, Amem to that...we have to grow and change internally and that certainly does help to change things externally. And yep...I am a firm believer in posses of support. I was reminded of the saying that "No man is an island" as I was reading your response. Thank YOU for the reminder.
And thank you both for sharing!!
Be well...
Pam
Posted by Pam on 22/04/2007
Love your stuff Pam, I'm guilty of playing victim too. I think we all are. Living in a state of graditude is the key. I try to tell myself that a real problem would be sitting in a wheel chair looking up a flight of stairs. Always seems to carry me through.Posted by Mike Merz on 13/01/2008
