Spiritual, enjoy helping others, love of adventure and loyalty. My son will tell his friends ” I am chill”, his friends have always felt
comfortable around me. My children also think I am wise and will often come to me for advise : )
Trying to collect what dear friends mentioned, it was kindness and sensitivity, they probably would also mention being a good listener, and when myself in need, I feel gifted that they do lend an ear to possible troubles in return. My friends love my cooking; I guess they would mention my singing touching them, too. Somehow this happens just naturally, no effort, just singing. People who come asking for help might mention that they feel looked after well and taken care of in need. My beloved sister would probably mention me being too emotional, while she highly values my sensing and being compassionate. She loves me and so do i. Other kindred hearts seem to feel some inspiration when sharing themes or meditating together. Just a moment ago a dear friend mentioned perseverance and I hope for being a good friend just like my beloved, warmhearted and reliable friends are, too. Grateful for it all. It should tell me that this old sadness based on experiences long past should not any more be guiding my perception of who I am in the “reality show” called life but to widen perception and perspective, that i may be allowed to develop a more integrative view. Thank you all for your presence. Wishing all a wonderful weekend, and many blessings.
I am hospitable, I make people feel comfortable, an effective teacher, a innovative cook, kind, generous, too soft,
not assertive, too closed, don’t share feelings.
What I have I learned: I am not perfect and complicated.
Amen and hallelujah!
I decided not to pursue singing as a way of making a living. Since I only sing in Vietnamese, there aren’t many opportunities for my voice to be heard where I live. This situation has made me feel discouraged, and I’ve given up practicing to improve my voice. I’ve forgotten many of my favorite songs, and I don’t listen to Vietnamese music anymore, as I’m focusing on immersing myself in English to improve my skills. However, whenever I sing for my parents-in-law’s friends, their compliments bring me back to Vietnamese music. But just a few days later, as I return to my routine, I find myself drifting away from it again. So, what have I learned from this? Compliments are a good motivator to start, but no one can help me maintain and improve my gift for singing except myself.
My Ngoc, being all too familiar with the art industry, if we’re serious about moving forward, we need an audience that appreciates our work of art. Even then, we’re the only ones who can help ourselves like you said. Ultimately, it’s “You help you.”
My younger sister occasionally tells me memories she has of our childhood and how I would help her without making her feel less-than for not knowing something. I think others would say I’m kind and supportive. It feels good to be a helper. I’ll always offer assistance to a stranger who looks as if they need something. What I’ve learned is that I can easily tip over into being a fixer instead of empowering others to do their own fixing so I watch for that and ask first.
Others would say I’m a good public speaker. I can be inspiring and funny and I’m a storyteller. I’ve used that skill in every job I’ve had for a long time and enjoy speaking. I learned to step back and give others the stage, though, to make sure I’m opening doors for people who haven’t had the same opportunities or privilege I have.
I’m a connector. People reach out to me often to find out who to talk with about something. I maintain relationships and have a good memory that helps me identify who can be a resource for another.
What I take away from all of this is how much comes from my childhood and family context. I’m the fifth of six children. My mom modeled kindness, I had to speak up to be heard, and I think of people in terms of community and trying to make sure they have what they need.
Determination would have to be a great gift. I have been working on throwing away/ letting go of my false self for three years and facing the false self is not easy because it’s so hard to admit and repent. I don’t want to see so much of what I carry. But today after meditating I spoke with my helper and we talked about what I saw today . I was able to let go of something huge I held onto. My mother and my ideas about her. All of the pictures that I hold onto of trauma and painful memories. Who holds onto these pictures of the past ? Who holds on to anything? Good or bad are all the self who labels this or that . I’m so grateful that I was able to pray with everyone today .
This is so good. 🙏
This saying has been helping me
lately.
“Who is more free, the person who travels
through their life carrying their raft upon
their head, or the person who can lay it
down and walk on unencumbered?”
Hmmm, makes me feel a bit funny.
Wondering about what others would say
about me. But, people seem to think that
I am very capable. This doesn’t always
feel that great. It doesn’t sync with how
I feel most of the time, which is overwhelmed
and in need of guidance and help.
From the outside, I can see how it appears
that I’ve got it together. And maybe this is
my fault for not letting people in.
When I’m at my best, it does feel like I can
do this and I have made it this far. So, maybe
I can take a minute and see myself from
the other perspective. As a confident and
capable person, instead of someone who
struggles and is barely keeping it together.
That disconnect, from what people see
and how I feel, is at the root of my mental
health issues that lead me to a life crisis.
I am grateful for that crisis, that crisis cracked
me open and lead me here and lead me
on this search for answers and solutions.
I think people would say my kindness is one of my greatest strengths. Ive mentioned before that life is already hard as it is, and being mean/having a negative attitude/pessimistic doesn’t make it any better. It’s easier to react and retaliate and be harsh. As I’ve gotten older though, I’ve learned that people’s reactions towards me is almost always a reflection about themselves and their inner world, so I try not to take it personally when they act unkind. I try to stand my ground and still be kind and attentive. However, This is a double edge sword because this led me to become passive and just please others to keep the peace. Regardless, I’ve made this distinction between the two and I would still rather try to bring a bit of joy in this world, despite all the hardships that’s looming all around.
Those closest to me have talked most about my piano talent. I may not like all the hype that comes with it but I’ve learned to look past that to appreciate how its calming effect on the mind and help me with my professional life. When all said and done, I play for fun; not fame.
Silly question but can you play Bach’s Toccata and Fugue? I love that classical piece and have awesome memories of being a young girl visiting the Brigantine Castle in NJ and that was playing as you walked into the haunted castle. I love the organ but I just saw it can also be played on the piano.
I find this question odd as I would have to ask them – something I’ve learned is one should not always guess – first impressions can be wrong, etc.
I remember reading a point to ponder was ‘what other’s think of me is none of my business’
I would like to think some of my greatest gifts are being a caring and kind person.
Enjoy the weekend everyone 🙂
I think they would say that I am kind, open-minded, funny, and positive. Those I have worked with, whether at jobs or on events, would say that I am super organized and a great multitasker. A kid I worked with at Whole Foods called me the Tetris Queen, and I took that as a great compliment since I used to love playing that game when I was younger!
What can I learn from these things? There’s so much I could dive into about all of these like how I was raised, how not having my birth father in my life played a part in all of this, how being the oldest of 4 is part of why I am the way I am… but I will just be grateful that I’m a good person, that my mom and step dad raised me the best they could, and that people like me (and I like them and all of you, too!).
My wife says she thinks I am very curious, and that she wishes she could be so. I think it is a habit or behavior learned when I was in college and medical school: find out who wrote that and why, and does their conclusion make sense in light of what they have written. Though my father was good with hammer and saw, and he taught me some of his techniques, I was a reluctant student then. But as I’ve aged, I have learned that some things are easy to learn or at least have a step wise progression: installing a light where there used to be a fan (or vice versa), cutting a 45 degree angle on a piece of wood or flooring, how and when to use mulch in the Midwest, and why using it in the west isn’t usually necessary, or changing a tire on a car or on a bike.
Not sure what others would say are my greatest gifts- Recently I was told that I had a good and kind heart…and a special love for all animals. I know that I have a special love for all animals..and my goodness and kindness is often directed at animal life. I love my family and have a special bond with two nieces (I don’t have any children)….and love them beyond measure. I have learned that I become disappointed in people- and animals are innocent and love you- even when people are mean and abusive…Animals are loyal – people are not always. But I certainly respect my fellow man…and have learned as in all things there are some good and some bad….Which brings me to…that all who come here are really good people and care for their fellow man. God Bless one and all.
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Spiritual, enjoy helping others, love of adventure and loyalty. My son will tell his friends ” I am chill”, his friends have always felt
comfortable around me. My children also think I am wise and will often come to me for advise : )
Trying to collect what dear friends mentioned, it was kindness and sensitivity, they probably would also mention being a good listener, and when myself in need, I feel gifted that they do lend an ear to possible troubles in return. My friends love my cooking; I guess they would mention my singing touching them, too. Somehow this happens just naturally, no effort, just singing. People who come asking for help might mention that they feel looked after well and taken care of in need. My beloved sister would probably mention me being too emotional, while she highly values my sensing and being compassionate. She loves me and so do i. Other kindred hearts seem to feel some inspiration when sharing themes or meditating together. Just a moment ago a dear friend mentioned perseverance and I hope for being a good friend just like my beloved, warmhearted and reliable friends are, too. Grateful for it all. It should tell me that this old sadness based on experiences long past should not any more be guiding my perception of who I am in the “reality show” called life but to widen perception and perspective, that i may be allowed to develop a more integrative view. Thank you all for your presence. Wishing all a wonderful weekend, and many blessings.
I am hospitable, I make people feel comfortable, an effective teacher, a innovative cook, kind, generous, too soft,
not assertive, too closed, don’t share feelings.
What I have I learned: I am not perfect and complicated.
Amen and hallelujah!
I decided not to pursue singing as a way of making a living. Since I only sing in Vietnamese, there aren’t many opportunities for my voice to be heard where I live. This situation has made me feel discouraged, and I’ve given up practicing to improve my voice. I’ve forgotten many of my favorite songs, and I don’t listen to Vietnamese music anymore, as I’m focusing on immersing myself in English to improve my skills. However, whenever I sing for my parents-in-law’s friends, their compliments bring me back to Vietnamese music. But just a few days later, as I return to my routine, I find myself drifting away from it again. So, what have I learned from this? Compliments are a good motivator to start, but no one can help me maintain and improve my gift for singing except myself.
Please keep singing, Ngoc! Your voice is a gift, no matter what the language.
My Ngoc, being all too familiar with the art industry, if we’re serious about moving forward, we need an audience that appreciates our work of art. Even then, we’re the only ones who can help ourselves like you said. Ultimately, it’s “You help you.”
My younger sister occasionally tells me memories she has of our childhood and how I would help her without making her feel less-than for not knowing something. I think others would say I’m kind and supportive. It feels good to be a helper. I’ll always offer assistance to a stranger who looks as if they need something. What I’ve learned is that I can easily tip over into being a fixer instead of empowering others to do their own fixing so I watch for that and ask first.
Others would say I’m a good public speaker. I can be inspiring and funny and I’m a storyteller. I’ve used that skill in every job I’ve had for a long time and enjoy speaking. I learned to step back and give others the stage, though, to make sure I’m opening doors for people who haven’t had the same opportunities or privilege I have.
I’m a connector. People reach out to me often to find out who to talk with about something. I maintain relationships and have a good memory that helps me identify who can be a resource for another.
What I take away from all of this is how much comes from my childhood and family context. I’m the fifth of six children. My mom modeled kindness, I had to speak up to be heard, and I think of people in terms of community and trying to make sure they have what they need.
Determination would have to be a great gift. I have been working on throwing away/ letting go of my false self for three years and facing the false self is not easy because it’s so hard to admit and repent. I don’t want to see so much of what I carry. But today after meditating I spoke with my helper and we talked about what I saw today . I was able to let go of something huge I held onto. My mother and my ideas about her. All of the pictures that I hold onto of trauma and painful memories. Who holds onto these pictures of the past ? Who holds on to anything? Good or bad are all the self who labels this or that . I’m so grateful that I was able to pray with everyone today .
This is so good. 🙏
This saying has been helping me
lately.
“Who is more free, the person who travels
through their life carrying their raft upon
their head, or the person who can lay it
down and walk on unencumbered?”
Hmmm, makes me feel a bit funny.
Wondering about what others would say
about me. But, people seem to think that
I am very capable. This doesn’t always
feel that great. It doesn’t sync with how
I feel most of the time, which is overwhelmed
and in need of guidance and help.
From the outside, I can see how it appears
that I’ve got it together. And maybe this is
my fault for not letting people in.
When I’m at my best, it does feel like I can
do this and I have made it this far. So, maybe
I can take a minute and see myself from
the other perspective. As a confident and
capable person, instead of someone who
struggles and is barely keeping it together.
That disconnect, from what people see
and how I feel, is at the root of my mental
health issues that lead me to a life crisis.
I am grateful for that crisis, that crisis cracked
me open and lead me here and lead me
on this search for answers and solutions.
Thank you for the honesty. I can relate to parts of what you said.
I think people would say my kindness is one of my greatest strengths. Ive mentioned before that life is already hard as it is, and being mean/having a negative attitude/pessimistic doesn’t make it any better. It’s easier to react and retaliate and be harsh. As I’ve gotten older though, I’ve learned that people’s reactions towards me is almost always a reflection about themselves and their inner world, so I try not to take it personally when they act unkind. I try to stand my ground and still be kind and attentive. However, This is a double edge sword because this led me to become passive and just please others to keep the peace. Regardless, I’ve made this distinction between the two and I would still rather try to bring a bit of joy in this world, despite all the hardships that’s looming all around.
Those closest to me have talked most about my piano talent. I may not like all the hype that comes with it but I’ve learned to look past that to appreciate how its calming effect on the mind and help me with my professional life. When all said and done, I play for fun; not fame.
Silly question but can you play Bach’s Toccata and Fugue? I love that classical piece and have awesome memories of being a young girl visiting the Brigantine Castle in NJ and that was playing as you walked into the haunted castle. I love the organ but I just saw it can also be played on the piano.
I find this question odd as I would have to ask them – something I’ve learned is one should not always guess – first impressions can be wrong, etc.
I remember reading a point to ponder was ‘what other’s think of me is none of my business’
I would like to think some of my greatest gifts are being a caring and kind person.
Enjoy the weekend everyone 🙂
Amen
Totally agree, Michele. It starts and ends with knowing ourselves. In terms of assume, assume makes an ass out of u and me.
I think they would say that I am kind, open-minded, funny, and positive. Those I have worked with, whether at jobs or on events, would say that I am super organized and a great multitasker. A kid I worked with at Whole Foods called me the Tetris Queen, and I took that as a great compliment since I used to love playing that game when I was younger!
What can I learn from these things? There’s so much I could dive into about all of these like how I was raised, how not having my birth father in my life played a part in all of this, how being the oldest of 4 is part of why I am the way I am… but I will just be grateful that I’m a good person, that my mom and step dad raised me the best they could, and that people like me (and I like them and all of you, too!).
And I like you. Thank you SunnyPatti.
Thank you as well, Joseph! I appreciate all that you share here 🙂
Over the years, I have come to appreciate & exercise my gift of being a compassionate, wise listener.
My wife says she thinks I am very curious, and that she wishes she could be so. I think it is a habit or behavior learned when I was in college and medical school: find out who wrote that and why, and does their conclusion make sense in light of what they have written. Though my father was good with hammer and saw, and he taught me some of his techniques, I was a reluctant student then. But as I’ve aged, I have learned that some things are easy to learn or at least have a step wise progression: installing a light where there used to be a fan (or vice versa), cutting a 45 degree angle on a piece of wood or flooring, how and when to use mulch in the Midwest, and why using it in the west isn’t usually necessary, or changing a tire on a car or on a bike.
I’ve been told that I’m grounded. That sort of energy can be a safe space for others.
Not sure what others would say are my greatest gifts- Recently I was told that I had a good and kind heart…and a special love for all animals. I know that I have a special love for all animals..and my goodness and kindness is often directed at animal life. I love my family and have a special bond with two nieces (I don’t have any children)….and love them beyond measure. I have learned that I become disappointed in people- and animals are innocent and love you- even when people are mean and abusive…Animals are loyal – people are not always. But I certainly respect my fellow man…and have learned as in all things there are some good and some bad….Which brings me to…that all who come here are really good people and care for their fellow man. God Bless one and all.