08 December 2006

Improvements

Improvement
"There is much value in the way you've always done things. Consider improving on that value.
Often a difficult and critical challenge will come along to force you out of your established routine. Take the opportunity to rise to that challenge.


Certainly there are benefits to the way you've always done things. And just as certainly there are ways to improve.

Take a look at the things that frustrate you, at the things you struggle with, at the things you resent and regret, and be thankful for them. Then find a way to sincerely justify that gratitude.

The most difficult problems point the way to the most significant improvements. Imagine how your effectiveness would skyrocket if the biggest obstacle that holds you back were suddenly no longer there.

Have the courage to move beyond what is comfortable, knowing that whatever your level of achievement is, you can always improve. And watch as the limitations steadily fall away. "
-- Ralph Marston

I read this quote over and over before I decided if it was a reflection of my mood or if it was speaking to me personally. I thinks it's a little of both. Yesterday was an amazing day on so many ways. While I can't say it was a bad day, it did have a few bad moments. I did the hardest thing I could possibly do and that was to find a way to rise above it. There is a thing or two that still remains a little unresolved, but I will attend to them as quickly as I'm able.

From my various interactions and from my own introspection, I know there is much we all can, should, and will do to improve our lives, relationships, etc., change is a much needed entity in our lives as it alleviates stagnation and routine. Change can present unknown and unexpected challenges too, but ultimately the end result is favorable if you do not give up. Embracing the unknowns is something most of us aren't willing to do as it takes us out of our comfort zone, but again I say, breaking patterns alleviates stagnation.

Whatever we're going through in our lives, we must center on what is good and not wallow in what is bad, what hurts, what we don't want to do. There are physically disabled people who have pulled off feats that abled bodied people cannot and/or will not take on. We question, "why would they do that? Why would they take on such a task?" I think the answer is very simple. Because they can! Because they want to improve or prove something. I think they have realized that they having nothing to lose by at least trying to do something new; something that could potentially bring something different to their lives. If they never tried it; they would never know if they could or if it would work. We all should think along those terms.

There is always room for improvement great or small in our lives. What will yours be?

19 comments:

Anonymous said...

OK, I'm first to comment... Do I have to read it now? LOL

Thanks again for checking up on me.

Anonymous said...

This is a very good post. I really don't have much to comment at the moment, but that's due to a myriad of thoughts and feelings that this has aroused. Thanks for the inspiration.

Bananas said...

I have to do some "continual imprvement" on my sex life.

But seriously folks...You're right Blu, everything changes. The key I think is to make sure that the changes you make, limit the chnages you have to make in the future.

Have a good weekend Luv! (With my best cheesy British accent)

TDJ said...

Great post. I'm working hard to improve my patience level with people and practicing calming techniques.

Blu Jewel said...

X - yes, you have to read it now...silly guy!

RAYNE - you're welcome

TERRY - that was TMI for sure! I like your addage "make sure the changes you make, limit the changes you have to make in the future" Great words!

TDJ - sound like some good things to improve on...woosaah! (smile)

Anonymous said...

So with the approaching theme, but i feel the sincerety of this post and although i went and rent the other comments for you "Tally it up" post, you've brought me back to loving u again. I know I can....

Anonymous said...

read, why cant i delete comments anymore, oh well

Mahogany Misfit said...

You are so profound these days Blu!

But you always speak the truth girl.

T.a.c.D said...

yes life is truly about looking around and accessing your life and making improvements and moving forward...I can totally relate to this post becuase I am truly at this point in my life, where I am looking at trying to move to the next level....

Anonymous said...

Just reviewed your blog and really enjoyed it. Got to you through Blue State of Mind. Have linked you to my site at http://bobs-odder-blog.blogspot.com as part of the Blog Experiment

Anonymous said...

Blu I feel this post. I was in a rut a couple of months ago and depressed. I had to make some difficult adjustments to my life. I needed to heal my spirit. Thank God for the ability to recognize that change necessary.

Blu Jewel said...

NIQUE - i haven't a clue what you're talking about luv

MISTRESS - I'm writitng what i'm feeling and i'm glad you can still appreciate it

T.C - i hope this post can be of some assistance

BOB - welcome and thanks for the stop by, it's nice to get a new visitor

WENDY - it seems like this was a necessary post. i'm glad it has some of substance to offer you

Brotha Buck said...

I need to find a way to spend more time with extended family. Great to-do for the next year.

Anonymous said...

Right on post Blu and indeed something I can testify about. Think about the challenges our foreparents had to overcome in our countries (GB & USA. Remembering what they've achieved should continue to inspire us all that we can "rule our destinies!"

I see you've found an admirer in Bob:-)

Anonymous said...

I'm not sure I liked the actual quote; it struck me as simple waffle about things people do time and time again. Your own interpretation of it was actually more meaningful in that you demonstrated the words with actions. Personally I think life is a continual pathway of challenges and obstacles. The moment we stop confronting these is the moment we give up and die. A nice thought provoking post as always!

SLUMP FACADE said...

I'm not handicapped so I can't relate, but I can appreciate this post; good looking out!!! My greatest weakness is not putting people in their place often enough, especially those who need it the most. Please pray for me to make the necessary adjustments...

Anonymous said...

"I'm not perfect. Yet I'm content where I'm at in my journey and pleased with the progress I'm continually making." - My statement on evolution. Always strive to improve, but don't forget to enjoy where you're at. :-) Good post!

layne bowden said...

i got a whole fuckin' list of improvements to implement, chile! too, too many to name here without taking over your whole comments section. (sigh)

i loved this post! after clarky, you're my next superhero! :)

Peace!

Anonymous said...

Man, this one was a little rough for a brutha. First, I'm in the middle of making improvements and I'm reluctant about some of it. I'll do it though cause I strive to be a man of my word and to do good things.

Blu, have a way of making people think about things in a non restrictive kind of way.