“Accept the place the diving providence has found for you, the society of your contemporaries, the connection of events.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Adapt, thyself to the things with which thy lot has been cast; love the men with whom it is thy portion to live, and that with a sincere affection. No longer be dissatisfied with thy present lot, or shrink from the future.” Marcus Antoninus
“I love best to have each thing in its season, doing without it at all other times. I have never got over my surprise that I should have been born into the most estimable place n all the world, and in the very nick of time too.” Henry David Thoreau
I love the peacefulness and friendliness of the advice that glows quietly from the words of Ralph, Marcus, and Henry. The wisdom they share here offers a gentle beacon to light our way today.
What are they really saying to us?
Don’t resist where you are right now. Don’t be dissatisfied with your present situation, whatever it is—and don’t “shrink from the future.”
It’s easy for us to look around and be downcast or upset with where we are—that takes no great skill. But to find joy and creativity in the present moment whatever our outer circumstances—now that’s an art!
So take a moment to reflect on where you are and how far you’ve come. Whatever you face today, accept the gifts it offers you. If you are struggling with a revision, then welcome the chance to re-envision your work—to make it better and stronger. If you’re coping with a tough rejection, then remember what the great Babe Ruth said, “Every strike brings me closer to the next home run.” Every “No” brings you one step closer to the “Yes” you want.
So let’s accept, adapt, and take action. Let’s ask ourselves, “What’s the most purposeful thing I can do right now?” And then let’s do it with joy and enthusiasm as we all write on!
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