“I talk about love, forgiveness, social justice; I rage against American materialism in the name of altruism, but have I even controlled my own heart? The overwhelming majority of time I spend thinking about myself, pleasing myself, reassuring myself, and when I am done there is nothing to spare for the needy. Six billion people live in this world, and I can only muster thoughts for one. Me.”
~ Donald Miller, Blue Like Jazz
Image: kellensblog via thegiftsoflife. Quote: middlenameconfused
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Sometimes it can be so hard to step outside ourselves, despite the fact that we exist in a far larger reality. And yet, kind actions make us feel so much better about who we are. This resonates with me – and there is an irony in the thread that connects this post with mine today. Strange.
Yes, small acts of kindness do light us up. I getting through my mail box, I look forward to getting to your post Mimi. Thanks.
Me, me, me. It’s all about me!
We are all there but we have to make the decision to include others in our focus as well.
And more me!
Excellent reminder! 🙂 We would be more happy, if we thought about others for a second. Your posts make a difference.
Thank you.
Okay, but even this is a little self indulgent. First, do no harm. If we can manage that, we’re ahead of humanity.
Yes, starting here we’re ahead of most.
each person has a close known circle that you can reach out and help out..it is like a light point.the bigger source more area you can light up..so start with a candle and turn out to becoming a sun 🙂
Terrific visual Kalabalu, thanks for sharing.
🙂 pleasure
Very thought-provoking, and illuminating at least two huge issues: Finding enough contentment and inner peace in order to stop self-obsessing; and actually doing something real to make life better for those most in need – those that are physically nearest and those that are elsewhere,
G
Yes, agree. “Finding enough contentment and inner peace to stop self-obsessing” Bingo. You nailed it. Thanks for sharing.
This is our dilemma — in order to help others we must first heal ourselves — right? Maybe — but while that’s going on it doesn’t hurt to just do it — volunteer, give of our time. You can serve at a public kitchen and still be thinking of yourself … or can you?
That’s it Frank, that’s it.
Reblogged this on What I see, what I feel, what I'd like to see… and commented:
Hmmm…
Thanks for sharing Todd
So TRUE!
🙂
“Why are you unhappy?
Because 99.9 per cent
Of everything you think,
And of everything you do,
Is for yourself —
And there isn’t one.”
– Wei Wu Wei (Terence James Stannus Gray)
John, loved this. Thank you for sharing.