Bill’s Curated Quotes – January 2024

“Acceptance of what has happened is the first step to overcoming the consequences of any misfortune.”

William James

Misfortune in one’s life is something that none of us escapes. Accepting that misfortune is a much harder task. Winston Churchill said, “If you’re going through hell, keep going.” In my 80+ years on this planet I have endured many misfortunes — a failed business, failed relationships, and a major health event, to name a few. What has helped me the most is being a learner, identifying what I can learn from each and every misfortune. But reaching acceptance of that misfortune is a much different struggle.

I wish there was a magical offering I could give all of you. As William James said in his quote, acceptance of what has happened is the first step. I have found that if I can just make peace with what has happened, i.e., the event, I can move to the next level — which to me is forgiveness. This is much tougher.

How does this quote affect you? Have you learned from your misfortunes? What have you learned?

Onward!