The Anxious Therapist

People aren’t products of their pasts. Who you were a year ago or what you did yesterday doesn’t define the person you are this very second. “It’s not who you think you are that holds you back. It’s who you think you’re not.” If you keep your eyes open, you’ll see that those obstacles can become the passageways that lead to new beginnings and fresh starts. And remember- pain DOES nourish courage. “You can’t be brave if you’ve only had wonderful things happen to you.” Be thankful.

Don’t blame your past for your future… that’s a cop-out. How much easier is it to blame than accept? It’s not what happens to you that defines you; it’s how you handle the situation that does. The saying, “God never gives us more than we can handle” didn’t come to be because it’s untrue; you ARE stronger than the tasks that lie before you. Believe in yourself.

Difficulties and obstacles are put in our paths so that we can grow. The smart ones learn. Often times a person only truly finds himself/herself in the midst of adversity. Be thankful for those times- they’re blessings in disguise. Literally, “rock bottom become the solid foundation upon which I rebuilt my life.” Nothing could be more true. Rise above.

Life is too short to make every mistake on your own- learn from others. We’re human so we make mistakes. It’s unavoidable. But try to find the ones who actually learn from their mistakes. After all, bad company tends to corrupt good character. Overcome.

It’s always easier to fight for values, morals, and principles than it is to actually live up to them. Live and fight equally. Don’t compromise those values for someone else’s… they’re not the one(s) you have to answer to someday. Be courageous.

Sometimes it’s easier to accept the evil around you than it is to fight against it. That makes a person just as guilty as if he were actively participating in the evil. The world needs more tough-minded, kind-hearted, strong-willed people. Become one of those people. “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only love can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Fight harder.

Forgiveness isn’t always reasonable; forgive quickly anyway. Love others, even when they don’t ask for it. Sometimes harsh words or silence scream “love me” the loudest. It helps your soul as much as theirs. Those people who just rub you the wrong way? Love those ones just a little bit harder. And always, always, always stand for the possibility of human redemption. Never forget: you were forgiven. Forgive always.

Pretty faces don’t always have the prettiest hearts. It’s better to have a beautiful soul than a beautiful face. Looks fade, but a soul shines forever. The most beautiful people have the kindest hearts. Be beautiful.