That which we persist in doing becomes easier, not that the task itself has become easier, but that our ability to perform it has improved. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
When I published “How Do You Feel About It?” some folks responded with, “Easier said than done.”
To which, I somewhat flippantly responded with “Practice, practice, practice.”
Of course, you were right to say so. It is easier said than done.
And there exists, a line in the sand for each of us.
For example, I support the Women’s movement. It made us persons under the law. It made us equal to men.
But should I impose that upon women who want to be submissive to their husbands?
Isn’t it about letting women decide for themselves?
I do understand that it’s impossible to respect someone’s custom if it violates our core values. For example, I’m never going to agree with honour killings!
We’re not perfect. Imagine how others view us in the western world:
promiscuous
Greedy
Gluttonous
self-absorbed
For those beliefs that do no harm, I want to be more accepting.
And that takes practice, practice, practice!
~ DIANA’S ENORMOUS BOOK OF QUOTES ~
Minuscule Moments said:
Diana I have travelled to many countries in this world and what I learned is this….each culture has its good and bad points, each city has a dark and light side. Mostly I learned acceptance of differences and this helps me deal with people on a daily basis. Its good that we are all so different. What a boring old world it would be if we all did the same things and had the same beliefs?
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dianasschwenk said:
Ain’t that the truth!
Diana xo
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elizabeth2560 said:
The acceptance I am struggling with is some annoying habit of generation Y.
I keep telling myself how my grandmother used to annoy me when she came out with critical comments about the ‘younger generation’ and I find me doing it too.
I keep, saying to myself ‘patience, patience, patience’.
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dianasschwenk said:
so true. They have a lot to learn from the wisdom of older generations and yet I think it behooves us to not squash their spirits, wouldn’t you agree? And yes, I said behooves!
Diana xo
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Jean said:
Ok…it’s honor killings. How about refusing to see a medical doctor because of complete distrust? Then the person becomes severely ill and has multiple major surgeries. I have a Mennonite friend who had severe menstrual cramps.she nearly fainted on me when she and I were walking around in Toronto.
Anyway years later, it was diagnosed she had severe endometriosis to appoint that she require surgery…of her bowels. (I asked a doctor-sister about this…which means very serious.)
Physical harm to a person long term or against their consent, is part of a core belief.
Sometimes just being a friend and listening requires a ton of patience.
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dianasschwenk said:
Yes it does require a ton of patience Jean. It’s clear that you’re a good friend and care about those closest to you. ❤
Diana xo
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markbialczak said:
I love your book of quotes, Diana. Tolerance is a toughie sometimes, right?
I’m so with you on your extremist example … Can’t do it.
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Mark! There are those who don’t like when people use other people’s quote as if it means one can’t think for themselves…(people have told me this!)
I think quotes are encouraging because they show me, I am not alone in the things I think. 🙂
Diana xo
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Mind Body Soul Stylist said:
I am right there with you — practice practice practice. And thanks for reminding me of the Emerson quote…I needed to read this today!
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dianasschwenk said:
My pleasure – love it when the timing is right! Have a wonderful week. ❤
Diana xo
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Eric Alagan said:
No sane person would agree with ‘honour killing’ – I agree.
And you’re right – we can all learn from one another.
Peace,
Eric
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Eric, have a great week!
Diana xo
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earthriderjudyberman said:
I recall during the time of the Women’s Liberation Movement when the debate was over which was best – the stay at home mom or the working mom. I thought that argument was very divisive. Each mom has to make a choice that works for her and her family. No one outside the home should second guess that decision.
That said. I’d have difficulty in accepting some cultural practices that are in conflict with my core values. Those that do not view women as equals or having any rights would top that list. A thoughtful post, Diana.
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Judy.
As long as we’re open to understanding others and re-examining how we feel about things and wanting to act from a place of love, I think we’re on the right track, yes? 🙂
Diana xo
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earthriderjudyberman said:
Yes. 😉
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joannerambling said:
Here here
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Jo-Anne!
Diana xo
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Drjcwash said:
I truly understand what you are saying.but for some women there is no freedom to choose. We are fortunate. Maureen Dowd raised similar points today. Thank you.
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dianasschwenk said:
Yes, that’s true. So the questions then are:
Where there is no freedom and the women then seek freedom, how do we encourage and walk along side them?
If they do not seek it for themselves, should we seek it for them while convincing them this what they should want?
I’m not saying I have the answers. I have observed though that a better future does not come when we impose our goals on others. A better future comes when it is the goal of others to change their own future.
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Val Boyko said:
Much thought come from this Diana. Thank you for the gentle stirring.
Be open
Withhold judgment
Seek to understand
Is a powerful practice!
Val x
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dianasschwenk said:
that takes lots of practice on my part Val – thanks! ❤
Diana xo
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Wyrd Smythe said:
You betcha! Perfection may not be an achievable goal, but it’s usually worth at least shooting for… or shooting in the general area of it… close counts! 😀
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dianasschwenk said:
Smitty, close does count and doing one’s best leads to a clear conscience – a knowing that we’ve done all that we can. 🙂
Diana xo
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russtowne said:
Thank you for yet another thoughtful post, Diana! I like its important messages and reminders.
Russ
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dianasschwenk said:
You’re welcome and thank you Russ!
Diana xo
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jensine said:
yes I need some
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dianasschwenk said:
Don’t we all? Thanks Jensine!
Diana xo
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Louise Gallagher said:
I think that to change what I deem to be the horror of honour killings, I must first change the anger that fuels my disbelief.
and, as you so beautifully said, acceptance without judgment is the beginning of understanding. And from understanding, all great things can flow.
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Louise and have a wonderful Sunday!
Diana xo
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Jennifer's Journal said:
You raise such excellent food for thought, Diana.
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks Jennifer, so glad you liked it!
Diana xo
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bulldog said:
Diana you can be my equal any time… to sit and talk to you would be a life “Bucket list” wish of mine…I would like nothing more than to get inside your head and try to fathom where all your thoughts and ideas come from…
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dianasschwenk said:
(smiling) Aww shucks thank you bulldog! !
It would be wonderful to sit down and talk about a whole strew of things! Not sure you’d want inside my head though hhaha
Diana xo
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Tracy Lee Karner said:
I love this! Have a great Sunday, Diana.
xo
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dianasschwenk said:
Thanks so much Tracy, have a great Sunday too!
Diana xo
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