Philosophizing with an Idjit

When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, and doing my dangest to sneak my peas to the dog under the table, my parents, in a kind, loving, and helpful way, would tell me to “Eat your peas”, and to motivate me, would tell me, “there’s starving kids in Africa.”

Which motivated not the smallest, microbial jot.
Hey, tell you what, let’s grab an envelope – I’ll gladly send them these peas!

Over the years, I’ve heard lots of such “helpful” commentary.
It could be worse.
Things are always darkest before the dawn.
This too shall pass.
Winners never quit and quitters never win.
And of course, “Cheer up. Nobody likes a whiner.”

And also over the years I’ve been in spots where all I could do was utter one of these time-tested encouragements.. And I knew they had the same impact/effect as my parent’s “there are starving kids..”

Oh? You haven’t landed a job since you were downsized three years ago? And the Unemployment ran out two years ago, and you have been living on your credit card? Facing homelessness? Well, cheer up. It’s always darkest before the dawn.

Ffflluurrtt…

But it’s true, ya’ know? There are people who have no food, and there are places where finding clean water is a daily struggle, and remember that reality, and being glad for our blessings, allatime always, is vital. And helps keep proper perspective.

And I have had times where I so despaired, the idea of a dawn seemed impossible, or, impossibly far off. And I didn’t think I’d make it. Was pretty sure I wouldn’t.
And I know others who experienced/are experiencing worse than I ever have.

So I ain’t being some special kind of jackass when I say “hang tough, it WILL get better.” Or, “remember to smile.” Or “The surest cure for the sadnesses is to roll up your sleeves and go help someone who’s worse off.”

Though I imagine the hearer won’t always ‘hear’ me in the spirit with which I offer it.
Relish the good times. Persevere through the bad. Always lend a helping hand. There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it. Thanks for listening.

(And, yes. I am aware it’s tax day.)

Copyright 2007-2015 © “Tech Paul” (Paul Eckstrom). All Rights Reserved.

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