Standing Firmly Grounded… | Filed under General
“Build today, then strong and sure,
With a firm and ample base;
And ascending and secure.
Shall tomorrow find its place.”
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
“If you will be steadfast on the path to which your
feet have been guided, you will find the treasure of
life, a never-ending stream of help and healing and
happiness.”
- White Eagle
“If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for
anything.”
- Steve Bartkowskihe
Groundedness is one of the most important components of a satisfied life. Being grounded means having a guiding philosophy — a foundation of personal integrity that outside influences cannot disturb.
Our philosophy contains our values, spiritual faith, personal boundaries, and the causes we support. It reflects our core beliefs about who we are and how we conduct our lives.
The media bombards us with promises of quick success and glamorous lives. People naturally want happier, more successful lives. Many tools are indeed helpful toward that end. Yet simply having certain “things” is not the reason that we achieve happiness and success.
Promises based on possessions and fads do not address one of the root causes of dissatisfaction; that is, lack of groundedness. Groundedness adds consistency to our lives — a mental compass to guide our actions and
decisions.
Without Longfellow’s “firm and ample base”, we fly from promise to promise. We do not stay with one idea–regardless how helpful — long enough to realize the peace and love we actually seek. We keep changing channels, not following one story line to completion.
Our guiding philosophy, defines what we stand for. It keeps us from tossing to and from with every new situation and idea. Our guiding philosophy is the supporting foundation beneath an authentically happy life.
Ask yourself these five questions:
1. What are the major ideas, values, and causes that contribute to my philosophy of living?
2. What are the boundaries that shield me from influences that would throw me off course and disturb my peace of mind?
3. What is the faith that assures a solid foundation in my life?
4. How does my philosophy provide a sure footing along the path to my objectives?
5. How can I build a more ample base upon which to build my dreams for the future and realize peace, love, and happiness in the present?
Ponder your thoughts, and leave your thoughts here or on your own with a comment here and link us over to your place. Return here from time to time and add new insights that you receive until I return.
Standing firmly grounded in our faith, values, and purpose, we can realize the consistency and authentic happiness that many spend a lifetime seeking.
Wishing you blessings and success! May you say Life Is Simply Good.
April 5th, 2005 at 3:27 am
This is a thought provoking post, Victoria, and I will have to have time to reflect in order to adequately answer. My grandfather was always saying “stay the course”, which I now know to mean, stand by your convictions, do not sway from decency, but loyal to your integrity, stay true to yourself.
April 5th, 2005 at 5:40 am
Very well said. To be led by principles and values is what makes a solid character. They do not make life easy, but they make it possible for self-respect.
April 5th, 2005 at 7:54 am
Beautiful, as always.
Take care.
-G
April 5th, 2005 at 7:59 am
As usual, you give us a lot to think about. And, honey, let me tell you I stand grounded everyday right behind that cash register smiling at all the other idiots that pass through my line!
Just playing with ya!
April 5th, 2005 at 9:12 am
When you have good, strong values instilled in you, it would surely be difficult to shake off AND you will remain grounded.
There IS a difference between that and being “set in your own ways” which actually gives a negative connotation.
Once again, you’ve posted a thought provoking piece. Thank you for sharing this and for continuing to inspire so many of us.
Hugs,
C.
April 5th, 2005 at 9:24 am
Reminds me of somthing that hapend to me years ago. A friend had good sucess and it made every one happy. I told her that’s so great I could give you a big kiss! She pushed me away and said oh no, I was not brought up that way!:oops:
April 5th, 2005 at 10:26 am
Lots to take to heart. Thank you!
April 5th, 2005 at 7:11 pm
Hi ya hon, just dropping by to make sure you know I’m here. I read it and as usual you have a way with words and quotes that really makes us think. Thank you sweetheart.
April 5th, 2005 at 8:20 pm
Very thought provoking. Great post!
April 5th, 2005 at 11:35 pm
Thanks for joining my birthday bash. And thanks for tjhe gift. I chose you if this wish has to come true. Given what I see on your site, there is a lot to talk to you.
April 7th, 2005 at 12:01 am
I’m not good with words, Vickie, but I’m just happy to be alive. I don’t need money or fame, just my family, friends, and a roof over my head, and good times. Whatever I do in life, I’ll be happy.
Thanks for this great post!
April 7th, 2005 at 10:41 am
Wonderful post Vickie. Everything okay on your end? It’s been a few days
April 8th, 2005 at 9:09 pm
Very inspirational post! Being well grounded is so important.