October 23: Cynicism is Fear Posing as Confidence
This balance is part of each of us recognizing our value and worth…you have something of value to contribute to others and you are valued…others want to help & support you. Sometimes you have to ask what you can do or ask for help for yourself.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”James 1:5 NIV
COMPASSION WHISPERS
The self-compassion activity you worked on yesterday is not a one time journal exercise. We're trying to permanently change the way we talk to ourselves and the way we think about ourselves now.
In this activity, you will compile a list of "compassionate whispers" to yourself and write them down in your journal.
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS
Colored pens or markers, watercolors or any other art supplies you would like to use.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Start compiling a list of "compassionate whispers" to yourself. As you move forward, your whispers may change. Figure out what messages you need to hear when you need to hear them. What are those little things you tell yourself that make a really big difference?
2. Write down your list in your journal and decorate the page. As you go through the course, you can come back to this page and add to it.
Part of Jacque’s list:-I am courageous, compassionate, connected -I am bright and beautiful -I love the adventure… even when it doesn’t go well
3. Revisit Guidepost 2 on page 55 of The Gifts of Imperfection; then come back and look at the artwork. Jump back and forth between these things.
If you're struggling with this exercise, ask yourself: "What would I say to my child or to a dear friend? I deserve that comfort, support, encouragement and love too."
Share some of your “compassionate whispers.”
Each day, Andy Andrews’ excerpts from Mastering the Seven Decisions, includes “compassionate whispers.” Read the section below from today about the Persistent Decision.I will persist without exception.
I am stronger than most people. Average people compare themselves with other people, and that is why they remain average.
I compare myself to my potential. I am not average. I see exhaustion as a precursor to victory. By persisting without exception, my outcome—my success—is assured.
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love, and good deeds.” Hebrews 10:24
I was at a coffee shop the other day and overheard a conversation between two young people about to graduate college. I was trying to be polite and not eavesdrop while lobbing over big smiles and positive vibes their way.
One friend, with a twinkle in his eye, was talking about whether he should start a company, join the peace corps, or backpack across China. But the other friend chimed in each time about why he didn’t think the ideas would work, and why they were foolish. It made me wonder why this friend would rain on the other guys parade. It’s fine to give someone a hand as they take the next step, but this guy was a fire hydrant, dousing enthusiasm, dreams, and hope. I wanted to chime in, but I held my tongue.
I don’t know why the negative friend was saying what he said. But it made me wonder if Cynicism is really just fear, posing as confidence. There are enough voices in our lives, in addition to our own, telling us what we can’t do. There’s a multitude of people who are ready to say our idea is crazy or irresponsible. Don’t let them steal the microphone in your life, and make sure you’re not the one speaking discouraging words over your friends.
Next time you’re tempted to rain on someone’s parade or feel you need an umbrella from someone else’s downpour, that cynicism is fear in disguise. Ditch the fear and go bold with a boatload of encouragement, instead. Failure or not, we all need voices that shine light on our dreams. The world is desperate for people who do this. Be one of them.
Who needs encouragement in your life?
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