Tidbits, Quotations, and Words to Live by

by Gary Wunder

There are times I see wonderful quotations and have a yearning to share them but am never quite sure where to do it. It seems to me that perhaps a small column that would run from time to time in the Braille Monitor might be appropriate. Maybe you saw something in a book of fiction that struck you as being something to remember. Maybe you saw something explained so well in a book of nonfiction that you wanted to share the concept so that others could benefit. What I share here came from my brother, who is definitely not a reader and in fact considers reading a struggle. Nevertheless, he thought enough of this to wade through it and share it with me. I gladly share it here with you and encourage you to do some sharing of your own:

The Seven Rules of Life

Author unknown

• Make peace with your past so it won't disturb your present. This rule emphasizes the importance of letting go of past grievances and mistakes, understanding that they cannot be changed and should not impede your current happiness or peace of mind.
• What others think of you is none of your business. This principle encourages individuals to focus on their self-worth and goals rather than seeking approval or validation from others. It's a reminder that one's value does not decrease based on someone's inability to see their worth.
• Time heals almost everything. Give it time. Patience is at the core of this rule, suggesting that with time, the intensity of pain, grief, and hardship lessens, allowing for healing and perspective.
• No one is in charge of your happiness, except you. This rule places the responsibility for one's happiness squarely on their own shoulders, advocating for a proactive approach to seeking joy and fulfillment instead of expecting it to come from external sources.
• Don't compare your life to others, and don’t judge them. You have no idea what their journey is all about. This principle warns against the pitfalls of comparison and judgment, reminding us that everyone's path is unique and filled with unseen challenges.
• Stop thinking too much. It’s alright not to know the answers. They will come to you when you least expect it. This rule speaks to the importance of living in the present and not overanalyzing or obsessing over uncertainties or future outcomes.
• Smile. You don’t own all the problems in the world. A reminder to maintain perspective and not allow oneself to be overwhelmed by problems or to take on unnecessary burdens. Smiling and seeking joy, even in small moments, can have a profound impact on one's outlook and mental health.