R.A.D.I.C.A.L. Thoughts

"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."
Bill Cosby

At the Kansas City Midlife Divorce Recovery Bootcamp, the first presenter, Dr. Barrie Arachtingi, made a comment that made everyone laugh, but it made me think, too. She said certain hormone activity during menopause has a beneficial effect. It makes us less concerned about what people think! That's a good thing as far as I'm concerned. For most of us, much of our lifetime efforts have been built around pleasing others and doing what we needed to do for other people ... our husbands, our children, now maybe our aging parents. We are instructed in many religious systems to help others; and we should! But let's do things because we truly want to ... not because we are trying to please everybody. Today, let's please ourselves (and God!) whatever it is we are doing. Let's do something just because we want to, or we think it's good for US. Let's take a serious look at this new opportunity to shape our lives like WE want to, not how someone else expects us to. Our children are becoming more independent, and it would help them, (and our family and friends as well) to see us boldly, enthusiastically embark on a new dream. Don't become selfish or self-centered. That's not you. That's not how you were designed to be. But become aware of what a strong, incredible (and fun!) woman you really are ... a compassionate, competent woman who is going to fulfill your OWN bright purpose in the world. Ironically, most everyone will be impressed by that -- and be encouraged, too.

"When you knock on a door, be courteous in your greeting. If they welcome you, be gentle in your conversation. If they don't welcome you, quietly withdraw. Don't make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way."
Matthew 10:12-14 (The Message)