Conversation Topic 9/21

[Jason]

What is your hopeful thought that you grasp on to. A quote, a philosophy, a book, a hobby, a vacation, family. The possibilities are endless. But when you wake up, or when you get down, what is it that you hold on to?

Is there a book or poem or author that you feel encapsulates your hope?

[Holly R W]

What great questions! I'll be interested in the responses.

[Holly R W]

I have used different affirmations at different times in my life to get through difficult times. Simple expressions can help.

The following story goes back awhile. My sister likes affirmations too. At the time, I was using the expression, "I'll keep swimming!" (even if the waters are rough.) One day, my sister said to me about herself, "I'm not a good swimmer, but I can walk. Can we walk together?"

My answer was, "of course!" So then, the affirmation was, "We'll/I'll keep walking."

[Book Concierge]

At my father's funeral my brother spoke about Daddy. He said, "The saying goes 'The grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence.' Well, our father never looked over the fence. He watered his own grass, and his was always the greenest." Of course, what he meant was that our father focused on taking care of his family, and ensuring we were healthy, happy, safe, loved and cared for.

So my affirmation is "I will water my own grass."

[Kristen]

This may sound like a strange quote to use for affirmation but I always say, "No one is keeping you here but you."
Every time I'm a little down or frustrated this quote helps me to refocus my energy, take a step back and assess my goals. I started using this at a previous job where I was unhappy and using that mantra entirely changed how I approached my job. Knowing that it was my choice and I was, to a large part, responsible for my own happiness changed how I approached my job and it worked wonders!
I also use it on smaller things, like cleaning my place. No one is keeping me in a messy house - so I clean i, hire a cleaner, or get out of the house for a day and deal with it tomorrow.

[Kristen]

Book Concierge wrote: "At my father's funeral my brother spoke about Daddy. He said, "The saying goes 'The grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence.' Well, our father never looked over the fence. He wate..."

What a beautiful affirmation, especially since there is a strong connection with your father and your family. I'll have to remember this one for myself some days. Thank you for sharing.