Some of the lessons below have stayed with me for years, but all of them are more significant today than ever.
- From Alan Watts I learned how to avoid the trap of overthinking:
“If I think (talk to myself) all the time, I don’t have anything to think about but thoughts. Therefor I’m living entirely in the world of symbols and I’m never in relationship with reality.”
- Lord Byron says that “the great art of life is sensation, to feel that we exist, even in pain.” I’ve found the best time to recall this quote is in the midst of pain.
- Jim Carrey in reference to serving the world said that “the effect you have on others is the most valuable currency there is.” In the same speech, also said how he created a life (by conducting himself in a way) where everyone he meets presents the best version of themself to him.
- Napoleon Hill in Think & Grow Rich quotes Emerson: “If we are related, we shall meet.” Then Hill builds upon the quote as the outro for the book: “If we are related, we have, through these pages, met.”
- We judge others on their behavior and ourselves by our intentions. You can only align with others when you understand their intentions. From the Book of Poetry, an ancient Chinese text:
“Of all the men in the world,
None are equal to brothers…
Brothers quarrel inside the walls,
But they stand united against insult from without
While even the best of friends,
However numerous, will not fight for you.”
I am extremely grateful to have had 28 solar returns, to have learned the lessons I have, and to you reading this.
I hope some of these lessons stick out to you! And if you want to read more of them, I’ve put together my personal 30 most effective journal/meditation prompts for gratitude..
To get Gratitude Gems: A Glorious Guide to Growth go to the link below:
ChandlerBall.com/GratitudeGems
P.S. This was originally sent on May 18, 2023. Sign up today for Daily Emails and get our free OCD resource: Unstuck.