It’s funny how inspiration works. As I came down my basement stairs at 9:30pm tonight, I really had no idea as to the topic of this evening’s post. After hopping on the elliptical for an hour and working up a good sweat, still, nothing seemed to be calling out. But if there is anything I’ve learned in these past 14 months of blogging here on TSL it’s that I don’t need to try so hard to seek out blog topics. In fact, and at the risk of sounding cheesy to some, I’ve learned that if I just know the right topic will come, then it will. And that’s exactly what happened tonight. As I was sitting in the sauna and completely relaxed while listening to the genius of Bach, tonight’s post found its way into my mind. So the time is 11:20pm here in my little town of Burgess Virginia, and we can now get started…
The Community
Over the past few months, I’ve been blessed to watch our community here grow into a thriving mix of people from around the globe. This time for me has been incredibly rewarding, and it has also been a treat to develop some powerful relationships with many of you. For me, community is everything here at TSL, and the fact that so many of you take a few moments with each article I write to leave your comments is incredibly kind and means the world to me.
Amongst the many comments I’ve received here though, quite a few of you (Bryan, JK, Christina, and others) have asked about my experiences in Chile. Up to this point, I’ve shied away from this topic because I don’t want to come across as someone mixing ‘religion’ with ‘business’. Notwithstanding, I feel the following story, although quite ‘spiritual’, will fit anyone’s belief system. So, for the first time, I’ve decided to share tonight one small yet life-changing experience I had while walking the dirt roads of this magical country in South America.
Living In-Spirit
You may have noticed the title of this post was ‘Learning to Let Go and Live In-Spirit’. The phrase living in-spirit was something I originally heard from Wayne Dyer, an incredibly popular ‘self-help’ speaker and author, and is basically derived from the word ‘Inspired’.
I bring this up because as a missionary in Chile, if there was one thing I wanted to have with me on a constant basis, it was inspiration. Walking the streets of a country thousands of miles from my home, in a land that was completely foreign to me and full of a people who spoke a completely different language than my native tongue was pretty intimidating. All these factors being considered, I knew inspiration was key. Or, in other words, I wanted to live ‘In-Spirit’ at all times.
An Unfortunate Event
I mention this because one day, while I was walking down the streets of a little town called ‘Victoria’, I noticed a group of young boys about 30 yards away. And as soon as this group of 6 or so caught their eyes on ‘el gringo’, things started to get a little ugly. In general, Chilean people are some of the nicest on Earth. But on this day, it was obvious that these kids were up to no good, and as soon as I passed by their little group, a barrage of verbal taunts began to be directed towards me. Knowing any type of retaliation on my part would only make things worse, I decided to just keep my head forward, acting as if I heard nothing.
Just when I got about 30 feet away from the group, I felt a shocking impact and subsequent searing pain in the middle of my back. As I dropped to my knees and saw a large rock rolling on the ground next to me, I quickly realized what had occurred—one of the boys had a deadly right arm, and I was his victim.
Retaliation
Before I finish the rest of the story, let me just say that I’m a passionate and competitive guy. Athletics were my life in high school and I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge. In fact, if someone had done this same act to me while I was in my earlier years, I very well may have turned around and gone on full-attack mode—which is what brings me to the point of this story.
As I was collecting my thoughts and pushing myself up from that dusty street on the other side of the world, I stood up and looked back at the young boys. Some were laughing, others were pointing, and all were rejoicing.
But it was in this moment of observation that everything in my life changed, literally in the twinkling of an eye. Instead of letting out my ‘inner Hulk’ that would naturally come with such an event, my response was to stand there and silently watch. And as I did this, a feeling of sorrow came over me for those young men as I realized, due to their circumstances, that they would likely never experience true joy in this life and reach the God-given potential each had been given.
And with this sad realization, I turned back around and walked away.
Which Path Do You Choose?
My dear friends, I relate to you this simple story because each and every one of us will face hardship in this life. There will be moments, when, out of the blue, you will be hit with rocks that will strike you to the core. For some it will be a personal trial. For others it may be work related. But regardless of its form, the one thing that each of us can always control is our reaction to these events. In other words, we can choose peace and forgiveness, or we can choose anger and revenge.
It is my personal testimony that when we live ‘in-spirit’, peace and forgiveness are our only option. We must be willing to ‘let go’ and see the big picture. So that’s my challenge folks. If you’ve been ‘struck’, let it go. Move on. And allow for peace to move in.
You’ve heard my thoughts, but now it’s your turn. How have you learned to let go of difficult events in your life? What do you do to choose peace over anger? As always, your comments are what make this blog a community so please don’t hesitate to be open and share. Also, considering we’re all ‘friends’ here, I’d love to connect with you on Facebook.
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I filed in, took my seat,…
{ 73 comments… read them below or add one }
Marcus, I’m almost speechless. What an amazing story. A true example of loving your enemies. I have had experiences like this, but here in the US, and it’s painful to see it happen – even when people do have opportunities to make the most of themselves, and yet will choose not to. For these young men you encountered, they acted on what they likely had experienced throughout their childhood. And no knowledge that things could be different.
On your “mixing religion and business” comment, I don’t think this does that – and to some extent, talking openly of faith doesn’t have to be religious proselytizing – Martin Luther King was perhaps the master of making everyone feel included when he spoke of his faith experiences. I think you did a nice job of it here.
Bryan Thompson´s last [type] ..If an All-Knowing Neighbor Gave You the Answers to Life- Would You Listen
Thanks so much for your kind words Bryan. You’re so right about the fact that these young boys were simply a product of their surroundings. Maybe that’s what caused me to have such a different reaction than my ‘old self’ would have.
And I also very much appreciate your thoughts on the ‘mixing religion’ thing. I know you’re quite a religious guy but you still seem to find an incredible balance in your writings that transcend any type of ‘anity’ or ‘ism’.
You’re a great guy Bryan. So glad your blog is blowing up and that you still take the time to support TSL.
Hi Marcus—
Very inspiring. Kudos for you for sharing this as yours is not the normal reaction to what happened. I think I would have tried to retaliate myself, and the fact you had the presence of mind to feel empathy rather than rage speaks volumes.
Thanks for staying up late to give us this. Much appreciated!
Joe D.´s last [type] ..Have Some Balls- Make It High Impact
Staying up late is what I do Joe
….Actually, speaking of staying up late, when I made a committment to TSL and blogging I did not want it to negatively impact my family time. Almost everything that is written on this platform occurs after 10pm at night. That way, while everyone in the home is asleep, I’m able to slap away at the keys—and it provides for a great balance….although a little less sleep than some might argue is adequate 
So very much appreciate your support Joe.
Wow, Marcus. That is powerful. When we no longer allow old knee-jerk reactive thinking to be our slave-master we experience our highest nature. Old thought-habits that have hardened into unconscious whips force us to think as we always thought. Unconscious whips stop us from experiencing the superlatively creative, compassionate and spiritual being that we truly are. You were able to stop, calm and let your Spirit lead the way — truly powerful.
rob white´s last [type] ..Mustard Seeds Say “NO” to Harsh Worldly NO’s
no longer allow old knee-jerk reactive thinking to be our slave-master we experience our highest nature…..
That, my friend Rob, was well said.
The Spirit does have incredible abilities to make us men and women we never dreamed conceivable….if we’ll but only stop and listen to its call.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment Rob.
Marcus,
Absolutely great story.and a great moral for us all. Life really can throw you some curveballs. It is sometimes hard to know what the “right” thing to do may be in any case, but almost always going with the “ego” reaction is going to be the 100% wrong thing to do.
If you had gone and challenged those kids what would be the upside? You beat up a couple of kids. Maybe they would “really” hurt you. It was a lose lose situation and taking a moment of equanimity and leaving was the best and only real reaction to a bad situation.
Walking away is not the right answer in EVERY situation, but making a rational decision and not letting temper, emotion or a competitive nature cloud your judgment almost always IS the right decision.
Thanks for another great personal story.
Steve@Internet Lifestyle´s last [type] ..Go Large or Go Home
This comment was beautifully done Steve. I especially enjoyed:
Walking away is not the right answer in EVERY situation, but making a rational decision and not letting temper, emotion or a competitive nature cloud your judgment almost always IS the right decision.
Perfectly said my friend.
So glad you stopped by Steve and am grateful for your comment and support here on TSL.
Marcus
I have went to “church” my whole life. I thought I knew what “living in spirit ” was. Around three years ago I realized that I reacted with a terrible temper at every “bump in the road”. I have been working on myself trying to overcome this and do what you said, choose peace and forgiveness. Thanks for letting me know I am not the only one that has to make a choice in those situations.
Nathan, if you wouldn’t mind telling me, what occurred 3 years ago to cause ‘the shift’? The reason why I ask is because like you mentioned, many people attend some type of church or spiritual meeting on a weekly basis, but sadly few actually get to a point where the essence of application is there.
I’ve known you for a few months now and since our first conversation on the phone, I could tell you were a spiritual guy. It was obvious to me as it resonated in your voice. This is why living ‘in-spirit’ is such a unique thing, as it’s something that is ‘felt’, not said….and props to you for being an example of that my friend.
Thanks for your support buddy.
Hi Marcus. I truly believe if we hold onto our anger, we are only hurting ourselves. Our anger or resentment has no effect on the person or persons with whom we are angry. Sometimes it literally takes a conscious effort to “shut that door” and move on. I have done that several times in my life. The most amazing story I have heard of late is about a man I have never met (but will next week at a networking event) who lost his 17 year old daughter in a car accident a few weeks ago (a classmate of my daughter) – such a horrific tragedy that no parent should ever have to deal with yet this man has not only dealt with it, has been able to accept it and move on while continuing to hold onto his religious beliefs. I cannot understand that at all – not being a religious person myself – but am very happy for this literal stranger to me – that he is able to.
Julie Weishaar´s last [type] ..Blog Comment Section- To Open or Close
Wow Julie, that is a powerful, powerful story regarding your daughter’s friend and her father. As a parent myself, I don’t know if I could handle such a tragedy.
You mentioned a great point here though—Anger. That nasty ‘A’ word. Crazy how one little word can eat at a man’s soul until the point of utter break-down on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level. Over the last few years, this is one area of my life where I’ve really focused on—just letting go. Letting ‘it’ be, whatever ‘it’ is. I see people that are so unhappy, blaming the world for this and that, and one thing I don’t want to be is a grumpy cloud, always ready to rain on someone’s parade.
Anyway, very well put Julie. And thanks so much for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment.
Marcus,
That’s the kind of reaction we would all like to think we could offer. You didn’t say; what was the look on the faces of the boys when you stood and silently watched. Did they stop laughing? Were they confused? It couldn’t have been the response they’d expected.
Thanks for sharing your story.
Lori Gosselin´s last [type] ..Are You Using All Your Resources
Honestly Lori, all I can remember is the boys pointing and laughing…it was like slow motion, and is one of those images that has been etched into my brain. As to what they did when I turned and walked away, I guess I’ll never know.
Thanks so much for leaving a comment Lori. I’m glad we’ve connected and am really impressed with your blog and its community. You’re doing a great job.
Thank you Marcus, the Life,forinstance community is young but growing. Amazing people are finding their way there – you among them!
I’m glad you came over – come and play again sometime!
Lori Gosselin´s last [type] ..Are You Using All Your Resources
MMAARRCCUUSSSS – Awesome story man! I love that you made the decision to not retaliate. That takes more courage than the contrary. What an experience that must have been. I’ve actually been in those shoes before, but there was no standing and thinking…only action. I was never hot tempered, but I was quick to defend myself. Fighting was my method of resolution for years…something that I’m ashamed of now, especially having children – but that’s how I was taught as a kid…that’s all I knew.
I wasn’t willing to conjure up the courage to not retaliate. Not retaliating for me, meant being casted as a coward, a punk, and would have resulted in me having to withstand more attacks. Well, so I thought.
In college, I had a difficult even that I handled the right way, which changed my thinking and overall stance on taking the PEACEful route over allowing my anger to fuel me. I’ll give you a quick version of the story…
My girlfriend (who is now my wife) and I were walking out of a grocery story one night and was confronted by a man in a big Ford Bronco. He drove up beside us, revved his engine, rolled down his window and let out every hate word that he could – to me. [side note: his problem was geared towards me being black and my wife being white]. I didn’t exchange words I just stopped, stared and considered my next move. As he yelled, he began to reach under his seat. Now, his words of DIScourage had me thinking that what was next was possible violence (from him reaching under his seat). My first thought was to follow the instincts I have honed from my environment growing up – rush him – pull him out of his window and completely eliminate the threat with an onslaught of physical craftsmanship with all intentions to crush him totally. A bit vivid, but this is an honest depiction of my initial thought.
BUT – I told him: “if it’s a problem, don’t worry – we’re headed home”…I didn’t foolishly think that my words would make him shy away from his tactics, but as I (we) proceeded to walk to our car he backed his big Bronco up (I went into defense mode at this point) and he yelled: “I’m sorry, that wasn’t right, it’s a bad day” then peeled off. My wife (well, girlfriend at the time) looked at each other in awe.
That event taught me that people have bad days. Sometimes at the cost of my own enjoyment – but patience and understanding for our fellow imperfect but perfectly made humans (as we all are) goes a long way. I learned that courage wasn’t what I thought it was prior. Prior I would have pulled him out of his Bronco and went to town – but that day, a new side of me was uncovered…a side that likes to end things with PEACE.
peace
Jk Allen´s last [type] ..Understanding Yourself
Jk, I can’t imagine you ever ‘going to town’ on someone! But that was very impressive, what you did, and I just wanted to salute you for it *SALUTE*
Stuart´s last [type] ..The Lion By The River
Agreed Stu, imagining JK Allen ‘rush’ somebody is quite the vision….
Holy Stinking Moly JK….This was amazing….really amazing.
Look, and I’m being dead serious about this: I want you to post this as an article. Just like this. It’s one of the best comments I’ve ever seen you (or anyone) make and you’ve made about 500 hundred other incredible ones. If you do not turn this into a blog post, I’m going to pester you ever day until you give in. You hear me JK ALLEN!???
You’ve got so much experience to offer the world my friend, I’m just glad that we on the blogosphere get to watch and learn from the amazing lessons life has taught you.
JK- Thanks for sharing that story with us, man! I tell you what.. I have never experienced anything like that when I was in college, and good thing I never did because I was not always the cool tempered guy that I am today, especially when I was in college.
However, being from the south, I’ve had friends who have been through stuff like that before and it usually leads to violence. Rarely have I heard of a story like the one you shared and had the person being taunted just walk away, especially when a girlfriend is involved. Our (guys) initial instinct is to protect ourselves and prove that we’re not going to back down from a fight, if that’s what they are looking for.
The fact that you walked away from something like that and that the other guy actually apologized and left speaks wonders of the human spirit. It tells me that at a certain level of the human spirit, regardless of what we think we may think, we all understand that we are all people and that we are all equal and that we all deserve an equal level of respect.
I see a very common theme in both your story as well as Marcus story, although the result was somewhat different. The theme here is that your ability to “stand-down” OR be the better person and walk away caused a certain level f pain within the agressors.
JK, your agressor left and apologized for what he had done. Although Marcus agressors laughed and taunted him even more, I guarantee you that their actions lingered in the subconscious and a certain part of them realized that what they did to Marcus was not right.
My hats off to you sir’s!
Hector Avellaneda´s last [type] ..Credit Card Debt Crisis Deepens in The US
I had a spat with my ex gf. She picked up my big ass external hard drive and as she moved, the wire caused the hard drive do slip out of her hand. The drive fell on my toe. Lets just say it hurt…A LOT. She looked at me expecting a full-on blow out. I saw how upset and sorry she was and I just hugged her. Few band aids and couple of days later my toe was as good as new.
Dino Dogan´s last [type] ..What Makes People Buy- Rejection
Dino, you are a hoot my friend. Picturing this story as you told it made me laugh my butt off. Seriously….But the question everyone wants to know is…..
Are you still with the girl?
Thanks for stopping by mate!
lol…well, not that one, but it had nothing to do with my busted toe
Dino Dogan´s last [type] ..6 Pixels of Separation Takes a Piss in Facebook’s World Domination
Marcus, way to take the high road. That’s inspiring and although many of us would have likely lashed out you did the right thing.
When I was younger I was explosive and chose anger. As I grew older I calmed down. I started looking back at the people I hurt even if they hurt me first or worse. It hurt me. It took a piece of me away. Even if they were the bigger jerk the saddest part was when my “Hulk” emerged, a piece of me rotted away.
You can’t be the best possible you, or a “complete you,” if you let that angry rot take pieces of you away. I choose peace – glad you do as well.
Jon´s last [type] ..3 Rockin’ Reasons to Pay For Your Website
Incredibly well said Jon. Thanks for sharing this.
The word ‘rot’ is perfectly fitting for the effect anger has on our lives. It chips away at our souls and peels back our goodness, leaving us a shell of our former selves.
It’s cool that you’ve elected to learn from you past and now have chosen ‘peace’. I stand with you my friend.
Thanks for the great comment Jon.
I loved your story Marcus. It is truly touching and I’m grateful to you for sharing this particular personal experience. To think you were completely on the other side of the world… I don’t recall if you said you were alone as well. You’ve pointed out that our reaction would best serve us if it was one of peace and forgiveness. You also mention anger and revenge as something we can choose in our response to adversity. I’d like to add (and you handled this brilliantly) that fear doesn’t have a place either. You were thousands of miles from home yet your reaction was not fearful.
One of the most effective ways I’ve found to choose peace over anger is to remember we don’t truly know the other person’s story. And until we do, we should withhold judgment. Thanks for the beautiful lesson.
~Theresa
Theresa Bradley-Banta´s last [type] ..Learn to Live
That’s exactly right Theresa–we don’t know the person’s story. If we did, and understood all the trials and tribulations of their life, 99% of the time we wouldn’t consider a negative response.
Withholding judgment, in my opinion, is possibly the highest form of maturity and spiritual awareness a man or woman can attain.
So grateful for you stopping by and support my blog Theresa. You’re one good lady
Marcus, you rascal, way to show those kids how to behave with grace!
I’m not sure if I’d have been able to do the same, so full credit to you for doing that.
If I ever come across someone who’s threatening me, or anyone I love, chances are I won’t resort to physical violence (unless I had to), but I’d stand up to them, show them no fear. Not to threaten them in return, but to show that I won’t be scared of them just because they’re loud and aggressive.
I’d try to defuse the situation with some well-placed humour; I find it helps lighten the situation and helps people realise that there’s no real point to all this hostility. There’s better things to do in life.
Remind me to watch out for flying rocks
Stuart´s last [type] ..The Lion By The River
Thanks for the kind words Stuart, and I’m sure with your wit you could likely diffuse any ‘heated’ situation. BTW, did I see you mention one time that you do ‘stand up’? If so, you ought to put a video on your site. That’d be awesome!
Thanks for all your support brother!!
Wow Mark, Great example of how living with a forgiving heart will lead to much greater happiness than letting our “inner hulks” get the best of us.
Thanks Jeremy, I really appreciate your kind words man. Also, have you gotten your avatar yet? Don’t forget it’s found at http://www.gravatar.com and it’s free. Oh, and make sure you utilize the comment luv tool I have on the blog so others can read your previous blog post titles. If you have any questions about those things, don’t hesitate to call or email me. I’ll be on the road a good bit today after 2pm, so that may be a good time if you want.
Thanks bud.
Hi Marcus
Thanks for sharing such a personal story with us. So good that you chose not to retaliate. Would have been so easy to do. You chose the higher way and to be able to walk in forgiveness is the key to walking in freedom.
If we have known true forgiveness, then we can surely forgive others. And then we can indeed know an abiding peace that does indeed transcend our understanding.
Beautiful post Marcus. Thanks so much for sharing. Appreciated.
Patricia Perth Australia
Patricia@lavender´s last [type] ..Collaboration- the new buzz word
Hey Patricia, it always thrills me when you stop by. I know your so busy out there in the blogosphere and I earnestly appreciate the conversation you bring to the table every time.
You mentioned here knowing forgiveness….This is a great point we haven’t really discussed yet. When I look back at my past, I see a very, very imperfect guy. In fact, I cringe. Thus, moments like the one in this story, when I’m able to forthright forgive another, is just what I need.
You’re one of the best Patricia. Thanks for all.
Marcus this post has so many lessons and on so many levels. I won’t try to cover all but I see a “servant leader” in what it’s this post. When I think of a leader I think of a person who inspires others to be more than they currently are without saying “look at me”.
I love the way you give us little peeks into how you blog and then aspects of your life. The way you have done it here gives us an idea of of who you are, the deeper Marcus Sheridan, and at least for me makes me want to come back for more.
The lesson here is timely and timeless. I know you have to / want to be sensitive to your community “because I don’t want to come across as someone mixing ‘religion’ with ‘business’.” As you already know blogging is something I’m trying to learn. So I have a lot to learn! For me there is no mixture. You are who you are and while I agree we shouldn’t preach from our print just letting people know that you are a person of faith is never wrong. I’ll leave it at that. Just my view.
Thanks for helping us to look at ourselves a little harder and wanting to live on a higher level.
Wow Rhae, this was very, very meaningful, in many ways.
First of all, I do want to be more than a guy that just gives a few business/marketing tips here and there. Sure, those things are nice but they are only part of the battle. If I had my wish, this blog would help all readers achieve balanced happiness and peace in their life, on a physical, spiritual, emotional, and temporal level. I earnestly feel that each of these areas affect the other, and so none can be completely ignored….which is why I mix it up here and there.
I’m glad you feel like you know me better Rhae. That’s what I want. (which, btw, are you on facebook?) …People throw around the phrases ‘networking’ and ‘creating relationships’ all the time on the internet but I want more than that—I want real friends. To achieve such, I feel like transparency and a good mix is the best route.
And thanks also for the business vs religion comment. I’m glad to know your thoughts, as it was something I was a little nervous about.
Thanks for all Rhae. You’re a great support to me.
There is truly nothing to add to this lovely post. My highest accolade is to re-post it so that even more people will have the opportunity to read it.
Very kind of you Pat. I appreciate that very much. Tell me, I went to your blog and tried subscribing (clicking the RSS link) and it just seemed to refresh the page but gave me no subscribe option. Any help? Thanks!
Marcus,
This is a great story. It is amazing how those defining moments in life stand out. The moments when we rise above all the nagging voices all the set patterns and create something new. Create into the future and heal the past.
How could you not mix religion with business. Our spirit is who we are.
Sheila Atwood´s last [type] ..What To Blog That Is The Question
Our spirit is who we are
Wow, I love the simplistic yet profound truth found in that statement Sheila.
So glad you enjoyed the article and I appreciate very much your support. Thanks for the comment.
Great story Marcus .
No story of my own to pass on but thanks for sharing yours.
Perhaps I’ll remember your story if I’m ever in a similar situation.
“…as a missionary in Chile” sounds like you will have a thousand stories to tell with experiences like that.
Keith Davis´s last [type] ..Speech Writing… the Marcus Method
A thousand is right Keith….I could go on and on.
Btw, I’ll be stopping back by your blog to throw in a few replies of my own to the guest post. Hope you’ve made some new connections and been happy with the results of the GP.
Thanks for all Keith
Happy? I’m ecstatic.
Not only do you write a great post but you also give a full reply to each comment.
Easy to see why you have built up such a loyal community.
And yes… I have made lots of new contacts.
Thank you for all Marcus.
Keith Davis´s last [type] ..Speech Writing… the Marcus Method
Hi Marcus!
First, I salute you for a wise and powerful reaction to foolishness.
Forgiveness is not for the offender — it for the person the offense was committed against.
What freedom there is for a forgiving soul — clarity of mind, a large capacity for love and buoyancy that abounds with living a peaceful and productive life.
Many good people unknowingly get trapped with the sorrows and heaviness of life as a direct result of holding meaningless grudges against lost hurting souls whose world is darkness and future hopeless.
One must ask themselves if harboring un-forgiveness and giving up a life of happiness and fulfillment is worth giving up for foolish men… I say NO!
Having said that, if someone hit my wife, children or anyone I hold dear with a rock — I would have to give all that up and kill somebody!
Mark Harai´s last [type] ..What’s the Difference Between an Entrepreneur and a Business Owner
You’re great Mark—powerful wisdom for 90% of your comment and then a big smile at the end hearing you talk about protecting your family
I really dug this line though: What freedom there is for a forgiving soul — clarity of mind, a large capacity for love and buoyancy that abounds with living a peaceful and productive life.
Freedom is the magic word here. Free from guilt for harsh reactions. Free from letting the evil deeds of others dwell within us 24/7. Free to smile whenever we’d like…..
Thanks for your wonderful support Mark.
Thank you for being vulnerable Marcus and sharing your story.
I have to admit, typically my first reaction is to seek revenge when I’m struck by a rock, but as you point out, I need to feel compassion for the rock thrower, too.
Peace always to you, my friend.
Alex
Welcome Bridgemaker (golly I love that name Alex
), I’m so glad you stopped in.
You’re right though—we need to learn to feel compassion for all parties involved. Every one of us has a story—likely a difficult one. Once we start to gain perspective of this fact, our ability to hold fast and patient in times of stress and pain is greatly enhanced.
Always appreciate you ongoing support Alex. Thank you my friend.
Thanks for the great post Marcus. I could only find one word that discribed your actions “courage”. (look it up if you don’t believe me)
You know that i have a passion for chemistry. This led to a discussion with a friend that’s highly educated and a successful doctor. He asked me what causes emotions. I told him it was a reaction to an event. He told me we had to go deeper than that. As best I can remember this is what he told me.
“We have to take a look at neurochemistry.(Yum yum chemistry, tell me more.) Your body is a giant chemical plant. Your thoughts control your brain chemistry. It is a proven fact that you can choose the emotiom you wish to feel. It takes a great deal of practice. It’s your chemical plant. You can control it, or you can let it control you.”
Armed with this new information, I was ready to experiment. For days I walked around repeating the words in my brain. “Remember the experiment. Remember the experiment.” The opportunity presented its self. A colleague said something that should have angered me. I remembered the experiment. A smile crossed my face. Then I started laughing. When I realized that I had controlled my chemical plant I started laughing harder. My colleague started laughing. That taught me that i could control other people’s chemical plants.
This knowledge, without question, has made me a better person, but it came with a high price. I now know that my facial expressions, my actions and my words control the emotions of those around me. That’s a big responsibility.
You, my friend, learned to control your chemical plant at a much younger age than I did.
Bob Ault
Bob, you do have a way with words my friend. This story was really, really cool. I’ve thought many times about the fact that I’m in control of my own reactions, but I’ve never really put that same type of thought into the fact that I can dictate others just the same. I mean, I knew that but I just haven’t really focused on the ramifications of such responsibility.
You’re a heck of a guy Bob. Keep smiling my friend. I know you’ve blessed many a people around you.
Hope we catch up for a bite soon. It’s much over due.
You are very cool under pressure. That is just one of the many things that I love about you!
That’s why they call me ‘Iceman’
Marcus-very inspiring message. I have finally come to the point in my life that I am letting go of the anger, frustration, pain over the things other people do that I have judged as wrong. People make mistakes, we all do, and it doesn’t determine who they are or how they should be reacted to in return. For a long time (my whole life it seems like) I have held onto anger at certain family members over my parents divorce which took place when I was young. I judged everything they did from that one event on and I held on to resentment which only hurt me in the end. Judging other people is such a waste of time because you will probably never know the whole story. I have truely forgiven and moved on and I can say that it feels amazing and has changed my life! The ‘big picture’ for me is that life is better when you forgive easily and get on with it.
Wow Gretchen, this was really, really powerful. I never knew that you dealt with those things (back when we were young-ins
) and it pleases me so much that you’ve made such a shift in your life. I’m sure your whole life has changed with your willingness to forgive and move on.
I hope you and your family are well Gretchen, it means a lot to me to hear from you and that you took the time to write this.
Sorry but, i love this photo!!!!
ciudades´s last [type] ..El valor educativo de la geografia
La foto me encanta tambien Ciudades.
Un gusto
Marcos
Thank you so much for this amazing testament to the gentle spirit that human kind has within them – even during a time of attack.
You did the right thing – better than most of the people around us – and I’m sure your gesture touched at least one of those boys hearts & soul.
blessings
Stacey
Hi Stacey! So glad you stopped by.
It would not surprised me if at least one of the boys felt a nagging sense of guilt from that experience and ended up changing their paradigm. I know personally, looking back at my youth and some of the dumb things I did, the people who handled my immature ways with compassion and patience (and long suffering) were the ones that taught me the most.
Hope you come by again Stacey.
Marcus, thank you for sharing that story. I am a big fan of Wayne Dyer and it is so wonderful to read stories like yours by people who are living the notion of ”letting go and living in- spirit”.
Thanks for the reminder.
Peace,
Mon
Mon´s last [type] ..Networking- Cyclones and Fiction Writing or Why I Committed A Caridinal Blogging Sin
I’m with you Monica on Wayne Dyer—the guy has truly had a huge impact on my life, especially regarding his teachings about how we view the difficult parts of our past, why we shouldn’t be making excuses, and the way our thoughts and words can dictate our current and future state.
Thanks so much for stopping by Monica. Your support is greatly appreciated.
maybe they wanted your velveeta stash…great story marc…brings back the images i had worrying about you there.
Thanks Pops….there may have been danger, but to be honest, I’ve never felt so protected in my life.
Hi Marcus,
Wow, what a story my friend. This is exactly what I would have done as well. There is no need to choose anger and bitterness over peace. The best thing to do in these situations and hardships is choose the “positive.” I have always learned to look at the end result. When someone chooses negativity and anger over positivity and peace, then this is what the end result will be. Life is mainly about our attitude and how we choose to react to different kinds of situations. Thanks for sharing Marcus
Dia´s last [type] ..How to boost your self confidence
You’ve brought up a really good point Dia with respect to ‘looking at the end result’. So often, in the moment of making a decision, we simply are only focused on our feelings of that very second, and not the feelings we’ll be having upon retrospect of whatever our action may be. You exemplify positivity in all of your writings Dia, so this certainly does not surprise me. Thanks for your constant support my friend.
Marcus
Awesome story, Marcus!
I think the reason I went to Ukraine was that it took more thought for me to swear at people. I would have gotten into a lot of trouble had I been somewhere where everyone spoke English…
I’d like to think I wouldn’t have charged at the kids, but I honestly think I would have. This is why you’re a branch president
Major props to you, buddy, and thanks for sharing this with us.
Tristan´s last [type] ..10 Reasons Why Your Blog WILL Die Before Its First Birthday
You went to the Ukraine?? I had no idea man! That’s wild…and a conversation we’ll have to have soon.
Glad you liked the story thought T’, as I’m sure you’ve heard and seen many similar. Also wanted to thank you for the guest post opportunity over there on Blogging Bookshelf, as it’s a real privilege to get a chance to interact with that rockin audience of yours over there.
Thanks again for stopping by bud.
Oh, what a very touching story. I was reading this morning the Beatitudes and here’s one in action. God bless you, Marcus.
Anne Sales@ Coupon Codes´s last [type] ..GotoMeeting Promo Code
Well a big Hello to you Anne, so sweet of you to stop by and comment.
Yes, this is a perfect example of the Beatitudes in action— some of the best ‘self help’ tips ever written since the beginning of time.
Thanks again Anne and hope we chat again.
Marcus Sheridan´s last [type] ..Learning to Let Go and Live In-Spirit- A Personal Story from The Sales Lion
As I was reading I was looking forward to your “inner-hulk” moment
What you did was amazing, and I wish I will do the same if I experience a similar attack. The hardest thing is to just walk away, but it’s the only right thing to do.
Have a great weekend Marcus.
Jens P. Berget´s last [type] ..Facebook Status Updates
There’s a lot of ‘take-aways’ from this story buddy.
But for me, the biggest was that your first reaction was one of unconditional love and empathy.
Being in-spirit allows us to see others from a higher perspective, and the great news is that we can work to have it more abundantly in our lives!
thanks!
Jason from Skyward´s last [type] ..Seeing the World in Spiritual Hi-Definition
Very deep article Marcus. It’s not always easy to focus on the positive outcomes instead of the negative emotions. However the former are the only thing that can push you forward.
Alison @ Femita´s last [type] ..How To Let Go Of The Past And Move On Without Losing Your Mind
Hey Alison, and thanks so much for stopping by and leaving this comment.
You are right, choosing ‘positive’ really is the only viable choice. Yes, it can be tough, but it’s worth it.
Thanks again.
WOW, Marcus. Thanks for relaying this story to us; I know how painful it might have been to remember how hurtful some people can be to others.
But what I admire most is that you didn’t retaliate or direct your anger at them. You just silently watched and then walked away. That, in itself, takes courage, and my heart is with those boys, so that hopefully one day they’ll be able to experience the true joys of life and learn to love.
Christina
P.S. Thanks for the mention!
Christina Crowe´s last [type] ..Do You Read Like an Encyclopedia What You’re Forgetting and How to Fix It
Hello Marcus,
Another great article. I am in the midst of some very big challenges in my life and I can say that my reactions to these challenges have run the from hot to cold. Through all of the turmoil the one thing I continue to do is to pray and call on God to help me. I can say with complete certainty God has never failed me.
So to answer your question: If you are frustrated…..pray, If you are angry….pray, If you are sad….pray. No matter what the emotion, the answer for me is prayer.
Thank you for sharing your testimony, it is truly a blessing and a gift to all who had the privalage to read it.
Be Blessed,
Yvonne
That was a really powerful thing to say Yvonne. Prayer is an incredibly powerful tool we’ve been given, and it seems you’re truly making use of it. May you continue to press forward my friend.
Marcus
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