Recently, someone I care about was hurt by the unkind actions of his family. Their words caused a wedge to be driven between he and his daughter. These are all lovely people, so it was sad to witness.
This situation reminded me of advice given to me by two of my best MENTORS who have passed on to their great rewards.
John Aliano - Teacher extraordinaire. He said before I said or wrote anything, I should make sure the information passed all three questions:
1. IS IT TRUE?
2. IS IT KIND?
3. IS IT NECESSARY?
I don't always follow this litmus test, but when I do - I feel really good about what I say and/or do - so does everyone else. I like myself more, and since I have to live with me on a daily basis - it's important that me, myself and I get along!
Then there was Breck Wood - Soul Mate extraordinaire. Once I asked him why someone who worked for him was awful to me and said horrible things about me, behind my back, of course. He said the following:
THEY AREN'T TRYING TO MAKE YOU LOOK BAD, THEY ARE TRYING TO MAKE THEMSELVES LOOK BETTER.
Interesting. This took some of the sting off, and made me feel compassion for them. In spite of myself.
Here's a photo of a wonderful event ... with both MENTORS
John Aliano, Dan Fowler, Zella Cox, Dana Mace, Dawn & Mike,Riffell, Deb & Breck Wood, and little Dru under the table tickling our feet.
BE WELL ~ BE SAFE ~ BE HAPPY
It's a Jungle Out There