Tags
200 words, Alberta, alone, Calgary, Canada, compassion, courage, Diana Schwenk, Diana's Enormous Book of Quotes, Fear, friends, generosity, integrity, kindness, life, living in the moment, Relationships, world issues
I love when people who have been through hell walk out of the flames carrying buckets of water for those still consumed by the fire…
Over the years I have had the privilege of walking alongside some of the most vulnerable and traumatized people in our city.
When I came across the above quote, I immediately thought of these beautiful people, because it is often those coming out of the fire, those who need comfort themselves who provide comfort to another person. It is often those who have nothing that give everything.
Never have I witnessed as great a spirit of generosity, courage and love in another group of people. Never have I run across as great an example of people who ‘live in the moment’ better. Never have I been so inspired to reevaluate my views and the definitions of words like love, happiness and success.
When did it become all about ‘Me’ and ‘How much I can get’ instead of putting others ahead of ‘myself?’
When did it become easy to do nothing and turn away from those who are suffering?
What will it take to get us back on track?
~ DIANA’S ENORMOUS BOOK OF QUOTES ~
talktodiana 
I have lived in the big cities Diana where the battlers are ignored. It is almost easier to just turn away sadly and hope someone else will help them. Living in a smaller community it is harder to walk away, people notice people and have a chat, things are slower I guess. So we take the time to see if our neighbours are okay. There are some good things happening in some cities I have seen people set up restaurants where you can buy someone else a meal. I rarely see a homeless person where I live but I am sure they are here. Life is so cruel and unfair and what I have noticed also is many of these people also suffer from a mental illness too, which makes it even more complicated. I hope humanity gets it right one day.
LikeLike
What a thoughtful response Kath – thank you. I think it so easy to become overwhelmed with the many needs in big cities and so people turn a blind eye for sanity’s sake. There’s homelessness, addiction, domestic violence, mental health issues, poverty…and the list goes on and it becomes unbearable when you are only one person and you can’t possibly help everyone. (Which is true) Maybe if we all focus on which cause we are passionate about and help as we can in that one area, all needs would be met. That’s what I tell myself. What do you think Kath? ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
There seems to be an epidemic of selfishness in humanity in today’s world, Diana. Thankfully, there are still people like you who do selfless work, and it does make the difference in individual lives. I’m so proud of you! ❤️
LikeLike
Thanks for the kind words Jennifer but I don’t think that’s entirely true. I get paid for what I do. How many times would I put someone ahead of me when there’s no pay or pay back involved. I think most of the time I (we) don’t even know I’m (we’re) being selfish because of current societal norms and standards. I think we’re a tad brainwashed …what do you think Jennifer? Can you tell I’m going through a reflective phase haha? ❤
Diana xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very reflective, D! 🙂
I hear what you’re saying, but there are many people who would be unable to work at a job such as yours. You have the right heart, the right mindset, and the skills for it, as anyone who follows you can plainly see. ❤
LikeLike
Aww shucks. Thanks Jennifer. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Strength in numbers … One by one.
LikeLike
I love that Jim! Strength in numbers… One by one. That would make a great placard! ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
I think you need to say “on track”– because sadly history reminds us that cruelty to others seems to be human nature. Keep doing the great work you do everyday to make the world a better place. I admire you.
LikeLike
(smiling) Thank you for your kind words Lisa. Yes cruelty does seem prevalent through history. Thankfully so do sacrifice, love, generosity… ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
I think you are an amazing person, it is sad tat far too many people think only of themselves and not others I hope I am not one of them
LikeLike
You are definitely NOT one of them Jo-Anne! ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
I don’t know Diana. I know I’m guilty of not doing as much as I can. There’s a world of people needing help, and a world of people able to give help (and aren’t we all one or the other at any time?). You’d think we’d get it together and manage this better.
LikeLike
Yes, we are all one or the other at any given time. It’s tough to change Colleen, we’ve been indoctrinated to some level as a society, don’t you think? ❤
Diana xo
LikeLike
Yes, I do. Sadly. ❤
LikeLike
It is the responsibility of each of us to do what we can and make a difference! You are one of those special people Diana, who have been through difficult times and has come back to share your love. 💚💚
LikeLike
Thanks Karen and back at ya! ❤
Diana xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m not sure what it will take, we just need to get there, D. 💘
LikeLike
Where this is a will Van… ❤
Diana xo
LikeLiked by 1 person