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Inspirational Thoughts
January 11 and 25, 2000
Ask For What You Want! January 25, 2000
by Shelia ShumateThis sounds simple enough but how often have you wanted to be respected, loved, and appreciated; wanted kind words rather than dirty looks, but were afraid to ask for it because of what others might think, afraid of what others might do or afraid of looking
selfish. Many beliefs were formed when we were young; beliefs about how we relate to others. As a child we observe our parents, grandparents and teachers and learn through observation, most often we start to act how they act, then a habit is formed. These habits could be controlling, manipulation or going without. Can you think back on your childhood and relate? Today, you can change your habits and behavior through conscious awareness. Think about this, when you ask for something directly, would that not increase your chances of getting it? (If at this moment, you’ are thinking, ‘you don't know my spouse, you don’t understand my situation,” one excuses after another, then you might want to ask yourself; do I want to change and get new results or continue doing what I am doing and receiving the same?) It is important for you to be confident enough to ask for what you want. Do you deserve to self-express? For example: You may feel that no one listens to you, so ask: I do not feel I am being heard, will you listen to me? Then suggest that you both take time without any TV, radio, music or any distractions. Just sit together and share. Explain how you feel, rather than telling them what they are not doing. Keep it personal about you, “I feel,” “I experienced,” “I think.” So there is no blame on the other person. Trust your inner guidance and ask for what you want from others. My wish for you is to be confident, have courage and take responsibility for what you want and what you get and JUST BE!
Express Love and Appreciation
January 11, 2000
By Shelia ShumateHow do you express love? Is it through spoken words or a written letter? Perhaps by petting your cat/dog? Maybe it is through a smile to someone who is having a bad day? Do you ever express appreciation when you clean the floor or dishes? There are endless ways for us to express love and appreciation and each time we do it helps those around us. Become aware throughout the day of how you are expressing yourself. Love can be expressed when paying a bill, in daily chores, cooking and so much more. The more aware you become of your thoughts and actions, the more aware you become of what is blocking love and appreciation. There are those who cannot directly say “I love you” so they beat around the bush, by asking “Are you fine? I think about you a lot..” etc. and their heart is bursting to express love and appreciation. Leo Buscaglia once said “How do you say 'I love you?': Often and loud!” What negative thoughts block you: I will not be accepted, others will think I am crazy, my love won't be returned, etc.? You are only imagining what would happen; today, imagine a new scenario, one where you are accepted, appreciated, valued and others delight in your truth.
Think of an individual who has helped or is very important to you. Now, imagine how you can express appreciation to that individual. Visualize it fully and with feeling. The more we verbalize, demonstrate, make known and reveal, the easier it becomes, even in visualization.
Mother Teresa once said “Spread love everywhere you go: first in your own home. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor... Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.” Today, make an effort to express love and appreciation in all that you say and do and JUST BE!
Check back every two weeks as the inspirational quotes, thoughts and poems change often.
Click on Dates for other Inspirational Thoughts
December 1, 2000 December 15, 2000
November 1, 2000 November 15, 2000
October 1, 2000 October 15, 2000
September 1, 2000 September 15, 2000
August 1, 2000 August 15, 2000
February 4, 2000 February 20, 2000
January 11, 2000 January 25, 2000
December 9, 1999 December 19, 1999