Mother Teresa of Calcutta had this poem framed on the wall of her home. It made me think about the thoughts, words, and actions I choose to “hang” on the walls of my life. What grounding ideals am I aiming for? How can I be a presence of peace? How do people leave after being with me? My attitude and ideals will not change reality or alter pain, but they can be a guide to what I put into the world. When I stop expecting change from others, I can start asking where I am to grow. The radical heart answers with more compassion, greater empathy, creative innovation, daring exploration and brave action. It is a yes in the arena of Mother Teresa’s example.
Do It Anyway
this version is attributed to Mother Teresa,
based on The Paradoxical Commandments by Dr.Kent M. Kieth
People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.
Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.
Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten.
Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.
Give your best anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.
Namaste,
Laura