Confidence

Cathy often asks me how I can be so confident. Since it comes so naturally for me, I had to stop and think a while.

When you're as good looking and smart as I am, lack of confidence and low self esteem aren't problems for me.

I've been told I'm sometimes arrogant but hey, when you got it, might as well flaunt it, right? *puffs out chest and struts along*

I present myself with confidence and I think that is one of the most important steps to feeling confident.

Stand tall and look people in the eye. Speak clearly and don't be afraid to ask for what you want. Works for me! Uh, Cathy, isn't it my breakfast time? Honestly, where is she? It's 9:30 am already!

Where was I? Another thing is to focus on the good stuff in your life and not dwell on the bad.

Think of your strengths and achievements. That's what I always do. Be happy with who you are and get rid of that negative voice lurking in your head who tells you that you're no good. I don't have an inner critic myself but I've heard they're a big pain to have. A real nuisance. Kind of like Tanner who is always a thorn in my side. (Pardon the cliche! Hey, I'm a dog, not Proust. ;))

You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here...... Oh sorry, I got carried away. I just love that Desiderata poem and the music is great. Cathy played it for me once and now I have that song stuck in my head.

Here is the Max poem to end this post. I'm sure you're all just drooling in anticipation. I know I am. Or is it that I'm hungry and thirsty. OHHHH, CATHHHHHEEEE! WHERE ARE YOU???????? TIME TO FEED ME! Honestly that girl spends way too much time on the computer. How do Brian and the boys put up with it?

DESIDERATA

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let not this blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy.


--- Max Ehrmann, 1927

Until next time, and remember Max's wise words, "Strive to be happy." That's what I do. Arf, arf, ROOOOOOOO!

Love Loup