QUOTATION OF THE WEEK
By associating with good and evil persons a man [or a woman] acquires
the virtues and vices which they possess, even as the wind blowing over
different places takes along good and bad odors.
—The Panchatantra
PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
The associations we keep play a very large role in our lives. If we want to be an inwardly calm person but associate with nervous, loud, uncentered people we will lose our calmness. If we want happiness but only associate with persons who stress the negative in everything, we probably will have a hard time understanding true happiness. If we want to pursue our dreams but only have people around us who put our dreams down—usually out of jealousy at not having the courage to follow their own dreams—we might soon see our dreams fade away.
Most of us need and crave the support of others. We learn from our mentors and role models, whether we are two years old or one hundred and two. What if you wanted to be the best carpenter you could be? Would you go to a carpenter who does poor quality work? Would you go to a carpenter who cheats or lies or steals? No, you would search out the best carpenter you could find and develop your skills through his or her example. You would associate with trades people who knew their stuff and encouraged you in your dream.
Seek out those who have the personality, skills and knowledge to support you rather than knock you down. What are your values? Identify them and then surround yourself with those who share them. Do not live life in a vacuum and do not settle for less than you know you can be just because someone laughed at, or insulted, or belittled your dream. Bless them and leave them. Many will support you and value you for whom you are. Have the courage to seek them out. You deserve it!
Blessings and Love,
Allen Schmeltz
Copyright © 1999 Allen F. Schmeltz. All rights reserved.
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