Think Before You Act

"It is easier to avoid the effects of others' negativity when we question if an action or attitude is appropriately directed at us. If it isn't, we can choose to sidestep it and let it pass." Sue Patton Theole, The Woman's Book of Courage

 I love... I live... I respect. Or at least, I try to. If found that lately I've been trying to use the T.H.I.N.K. to try to get my head on straight, to try to be more focused on the reality of everything that goes on around me. I know, just thinking about what your saying can't possibly change your entire outlook that much, can it? I've really found that applying this idea not only to myself but to my household has changed everything.

In my whole quest to find the right path lately, you know... the whole removing the negativity, trying to clear out my 'closet' so to speak, finding peace in the past and thus confidence in the future. I have found that this little tidbit has been the most important I have found. Mostly because before I say thing, especially on the internet, I ask myself the T.H.I.N.K. questions. 

I've found most often than not... I stop myself from saying anything at all. I'm not really for not putting things out there exactly the way you mean them, but I am big on making sure you aren't hurting people with your words. Because, yes... despite what you say, words hurt... sometimes badly. Even more so when words are used in conjunction with the action that solidifies the statement.

I want to be true, kind, and necessary. I only say as much as needs to be said, I keep it honest and forthcoming, and I make sure it doesn't leave someone feeling like a pile of sludge under my feet. In truth, I used to be horrible at this -- I'm the queen of hits below the belt. The problem is, I know people... I get to learn them inside and out, it's just part of my nature (I blame it on being an aquarius, we get people.) Too often, in the past, I had gotten upset and tore someone down piece by piece until there was nothing. I don't want to do that anymore.

I want to leave something behind... if I leave anything I hope it is this: respect is key in all areas of your life. I hope that through my own actions, my sons will learn this -- I hope they learn to love without expectation, to speak to help others, and to think with positivity so that they will not be dragged down. 

Now the question: why the T.H.I.N.K. post, Kim? Why the stupid details about stuff that means nothing? Because I hope through the actions of others, as they are too focused on their own negativity, that I can shine some light on the need to care about people. Care about what your actions do, care about what your words mean, and most of all... care about people. Period. 

Tomorrow is another day; I choose to side-step and let it pass.