🌸 Reflections from My Mom’s Journals, Post #13
Three Quotes That Challenge How We Navigate Life
Sometimes the most profound truths come wrapped in unexpected packages. Today, I want to explore three quotes from my mom—each dramatically different in tone and origin—that offer powerful insights into how we approach relationships, decisions, and personal growth.
On Deliberate Action: The Power of Intentional Choices
“I was taught to think before I act, so if I smack the shit out of you, rest assured—I’ve thought about it, and I am confident in my decision.”
This quote, blunt and a little irreverent, always makes me laugh. But beneath the humor lies a deeper truth—one about the importance of acting with intention.
Too often, we either react impulsively without considering the consequences, or we overthink ourselves into paralysis. The wisdom here isn’t about advocating violence (despite the colorful language), but rather about owning our choices completely.
When we act with intention and consideration, we eliminate the fallback of “I wasn’t thinking” or “I didn’t mean to.”
This mindset transforms how we approach everything:
Are you making this decision deliberately, or are you simply reacting?
Have you weighed the consequences, or are you on autopilot?
Intentional living means being present and confident in our choices—even when they’re hard.
On Managing Expectations: The Path to Inner Peace
“The best way to avoid disappointment is to never expect anything from anyone.”
This one hits home for me. It’s not about becoming cynical or emotionally distant. It’s about understanding how expectations—especially unspoken ones—can sabotage our peace of mind.
How many times have I thought, “They should’ve known!” as if the people in my life were psychic mind readers? I’ve held silent expectations, then felt hurt or angry when they weren't met. Meanwhile, the other person is left confused, wondering what went wrong.
Talk about a communication gap!
This quote encourages us to release those silent contracts we create with others. Instead of being disappointed by unmet expectations, we open ourselves to being pleasantly surprised by thoughtfulness, kindness, and love when they show up.
It’s not about expecting nothing because we don’t care- it's about caring without control. Loving others for who they are, not who we think they should be. True peace comes when our contentment doesn’t hinge on someone else’s behavior.
On Authentic Giving: Filling Your Own Cup First
“You can’t give away what you don’t have.” – Wayne Dyer
Mom and I both adored Wayne Dyer and all the wisdom he gave the world during his time “earthing.” This quote may be simple, but it cuts straight to the heart of authentic living.
If you don’t have inner peace, you can’t genuinely offer it to others. If you lack self-love or patience (I’m definitely still working on this one!), your efforts to comfort or guide others will ring hollow.
This principle applies to everything:
Friendship
Service
It’s why the best teachers are lifelong learners. Why the strongest leaders invest in their own growth. Why true connection comes from people who have done the work internally.
This quote is both a reality check and a call to action:
Before you try to help others, heal yourself. Fill your cup. Do your own work. It’s the most generous and sustainable thing you can do for the world around you.
The Common Thread: Radical Responsibility
Though these three quotes come from different sources and tones, they share one clear theme: personal responsibility.
The first encourages us to own our actions completely.
The second asks us to take responsibility for our expectations and emotional responses.
The third reminds us to take ownership of our personal development before trying to lead or love others.
Together, they paint a picture of what I like to call “mature adulthood” (though I’ll admit—I don’t always enjoy adulting!). This version of adulthood is built on clarity, self-awareness, and emotional integrity.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being honest, intentional, and accountable—especially with ourselves.
Living These Principles
These aren’t just feel-good quotes to pin on a board—they’re practical life tools. They invite us to:
✅ Pause and reflect before we act
✅ Examine and manage our expectations of others
✅ Grow and heal ourselves so we can give authentically
In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable (especially these days!!!), these small but mighty principles offer grounding, peace, and effectiveness in everything from relationships to decision-making.
Final Thoughts: Wisdom in Unexpected Wrapping
The beauty of wisdom is that it shows up in all kinds of packages:
A joke with a sharp edge
A stark observation
A quiet insight from someone who’s been there
Or even a wild question from a curious child
Lessons come in all size bags. The key is staying open—open to learning, to reflecting, and to becoming just a little more aligned each day.
And maybe… open to laughing at yourself a little along the way.
💋✨Until next time... Keep loving & living your best life!
Wishing you Love, Light & Sparkles!
🌸 Carrie
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