All >
Columns >
Country Wisdom
Country Wisdom
By: Carole Clark, Ph.D.
Topics:
Posted by editor
Mon Apr 30, 2007 10:26:01 PDT
Viewed 271
times
0
responses
0
comments
Wisdom of the week: Michelangelo has said, “If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery, it wouldn't seem so wonderful after all.” But the results of his hard work are breathtaking, and so often it isn't in-born talent that brings masterpieces, but rather the hard work that Michelangelo speaks of. So give your dreams all you have to give and you will be rewarded richly.
Dear C.C.: I dread the coming election. My friends and I don't all see the same way, and it's trying on our friendships. Any help?
Dear Friend: Everyone has a unique perspective and it gives us different beliefs, different wants and behaviors... certainly different political views. But the truth is, the things we have in common are far more numerous than our differences, and it is from this common ground that you're better able to resolve your conflicts.
Take the time to discover your similar perspectives. Actually, we all pretty much seek the same ultimate outcome... the disagreement is usually about how to get there. And even if you aren't always able to agree, you can always understand. Set aside your desire to get your friends to accept your point of view and don't feel you have to give in to theirs. Discover how you see things that are similar or what you both want and it can make your friendships stronger.
I sometimes think that politics are geared to divide us, and avert us from seeing what may truly be occurring. Being angry shuts down our ability to think clearly and puts us in a place of reacting like a caged animal. Just remember whether your political side is in or out, your friendships can be forever.
Questions can be mailed to Country Wisdom, Tehachapi News at P.O. Box 1840, Tehachapi, CA 93581, e-mailed to editorial@tehachapinews.com , or dropped off at the Tehachapi News office, 411 North Mill Street, Tehachapi, CA 93561.