Enduring Truths
What are the enduring truths about ourselves that we sometimes
don't see or remember? These are truths that were recognized
thousands of years ago, and have stood the test of time. Here
are a few to consider, and some ideas about how to use this knowledge.
Enduring Truth - Self Interest
We want what is best for ourselves. Even when we sacrifice
for others, it is motivated by our own desires. These desires
include good feelings, or wanting to see or make the world the
way we want it to be. When we forget this, we become bitter trying
to "do the right thing." To avoid this, we need to
see how being a good person and doing the right thing is just
self interest.
We also need to point out the self interest of others to them
if we want to correct their behavior. Telling a man he is wrong
isn't usually enough to change his behavior. It is better to
show him where his true interest lies - that behaving in a better
way is better for him. Remember self interest in dealing with
others and with yourself.
Enduring Truth - We Make Mistakes
Salvador Dali once said, "Have no fear of perfection.
You'll never reach it." Some may see this as negativity,
but recognizing the truth is never a negative act. We make mistakes.
The greatest man or woman alive - whoever that may be - has done
some stupid things.
This isn't an attack on greatness, but a recognition that
it isn't dependent on doing things perfectly. Perfectionists
almost certainly suffer for their demands upon themselves, and
others hesitate to act for fear of mistakes. As Lao Tzu says,
"Do your work, then step back - The only path to serenity."
Enduring Truth - We Learn
Mistakes give us a chance to learn, and so avoid even bigger
mistakes. We also can learn from our successes, and from the
successes of others. Why not see mistakes and successes - our
own and others - as the great opportunities they are. Seize the
chance to learn more and so live better.
Enduring Truth - We Can Change
You have seen people that seem to learn nothing from their
mistakes and change little, right? Haven't you also seen, known
and read about those who turned their lives around? The less
important truth is that people often don't change. The far more
important truth to remember, and the most important of these
enduring truths, is that we can change.
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