Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair all day, because it keeps you busy but gets you nowhere.
Joyce MeyerRead
Consider a tree for a moment. As beautiful as trees are to look at, we don't see what goes on underground - as they grow roots. Trees must develop deep roots in order to grow strong and produce their beauty. But we don't see the roots. We just see and enjoy the beauty. In much the same way, what goes on inside of us is like the roots of a tree.
Interpretation
True growth requires a strong foundation, even if it's not visible.
This quote emphasizes the importance of inner strength and personal development, comparing it to the unseen roots of a tree that are essential for its stability and beauty. Just as we admire a tree's outward appearance without recognizing the crucial work happening beneath the surface, we often overlook the inner growth and experiences that shape a person's character and success.
In practice
In a motivational speech to students about personal development.
Worry is like rocking in a rocking chair all day, because it keeps you busy but gets you nowhere.
A positive attitude gives you power over your circumstances instead of your circumstances having power over you.
Encourage everyone you meet with a smile or compliment. Make them feel better when you leave their presence and they will always be glad to see you coming.
Peace is one of the most precious gifts God has promised His children. I know, because for many years my life was not peaceful, and I was miserable.
Early on in my life, I had a broken soul. I was abused by my father, abandoned by my mother and ended up in a destructive first marriage. By the time I was 23, I was broken in my soul. I didn't know how to think right. I felt wrong about everything. But God stepped into my life, and I came out on the other side and didn't even smell like smoke.
I learned that what happened to me did not have to define who I was. My past could not control my future unless I allowed it to.
You must not pity me because my sixtieth year finds me still astonished. To be astonished is one of the surest ways of not growing old too quickly.
And all knowledge, when separated from justice and virtue, is seen to be cunning and not wisdom; wherefore make this your first and last and constant and all-absorbing aim, to exceed, if possible, not only us but all your ancestors in virtue; and know that to excel you in virtue only brings us shame, but that to be excelled by you is a source of happiness to us.
Many people excuse their own faults but judge other persons harshly. We should reverse this attitude by excusing others' shortcomings and by harshly examining our own.
The most important things must be said simply, for they are spoiled by bombast; whereas trivial things must be described grandly, for they are supported only by aptness of expression, tone and manner.
Now that I am sixty, I see why the idea of elder wisdom has passed from currency.
In Greece wise men speak and fools decide.
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