Not that long ago, I was sitting with a friend having coffee. We were discussing some pretty heavy stuff, the kinds of things I would never blog about and only those closest to me know. I was telling her about things that had happened in the past, things from a million years ago that I can’t recall in exact detail, but I have a sense of it in my memory. They aren’t good things, but they are things that needed to see the light of day.
As I was recounting what happened, I kept returning to the quote from Maya Angelou:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
I said it so often in our conversation that I suggested it be my mantra for this year. So far, it hasn’t been. But it has gotten me thinking about the truth behind it. I can’t recall all the things that were said or even some things that were done, but I can recall how I felt in certain circumstances.
As I’ve been digging into my word for the year, FEARLESS, I found another quote, one that is going to become my mantra for the year. One that complements Maya Angelou’s quote nicely.
“Be truthful, gentle, and fearless.” -Gandhi
That just about sums it up. Truthful? Yes. Gentle? Yes. Fearless? Heck, yes! It encompasses everything I want to be, and how I hope people will describe me by year’s end.
Which is one of the main reasons I took on one little word this year. I want to be those things. I want to be the kind of person who makes people feel inspired, loved, good. What else can any of us ask for?
Oh my goodness, so true! I may not remember why I don’t like someone, but I know exactly how they made me feel, which is why I don’t like them! Does that make sense at all? I was talking to a friend last night who came to the aid of another friend, and I realized that’s the person I want to be–I want to be someone who can be counted on, relied on, trusted. This year my goal is to be better: a better wife, daughter/in-law, friend, sister, aunt, writer, reader, person.
you write about the thoughts i continue to have about real connection… about looking people in the eye, my kids and family included… b/c what better gift can you give someone than you time and attention and eye contact???!!! i find when i connect i learn so much more about myself… whether it’s me sharing or someone else doing the sharing. (also?? i LOVE your shirt!!)