A Vessel Unfilled
Lao Tzu
It is better to leave a vessel unfilled, than to attempt to
carry it when it is full. If you keep feeling a point that has been
sharpened, the point cannot long preserve its sharpness.
When gold and jade fill the hall, their possessor cannot keep them
safe. When wealth and honours lead to arrogancy, this brings its evil
on itself. When the work is done, and one’s name is becoming
distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.
Often times letting people who are close to us know they are always loved and there is a safety net is the best we can do and it is the best thing to do.
“You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice.” ~ Bob Marley
When a challenge knocks you flat on your butt you can let it destroy you, define you, or strengthen you. It’s up to you.
1. Ice therapy – Apply ice immediately after the injury to reduce blood flow around the area. Cooling the blood vessels can reduce the amount of blood that leaks into the surrounding tissue. This can prevent the bruise from being as apparent and reduce swelling.
2. Heat – You can apply heat to boost circulation and increase blood flow. This will help to clear away the trapped blood after the bruise has already formed. Applying heat can also help to loosen tense muscles and relieve pain. You can use a heating pad or a hot water bottle. Soaking in a hot bath is another option.
3. Compression – Wrap the bruised area in an elastic bandage. This will squeeze the tissues and help prevent blood vessels from leaking. Using compression can lessen the severity of the bruise and help to reduce pain and swelling.
4. Elevation – Elevate the bruised area so that it’s above the heart. This helps to relieve pain and drain fluid away from the bruised area. Elevation can also reduce pressure and compression. This gives you the perfect chance to rest and relax, which can also help the healing process.
5. Arnica – Arnica is a homeopathic herb that is said to reduce inflammation and swelling, thus making it an ideal treatment for bruising. A 2010 study found that topical arnica ointment effectively reduced laser-induced bruising. You can use an arnica ointment or gel on the bruise a few times per day.
I am not the same person I was yesterday as I am today. Tomorrow I will be different than I am today. The change I experience may not be noticeable to me or others, but it is happening. Each time I meet a new person, I am changed. Each time I learn something new, I am changed. Each experience I have changes me. Don’t fear change. It is your friend.
Take time to let people cross in the parking lot.
Take time to call a loved one who hasn’t heard from you.
Take time to pray.
Take time to enjoy coffee or iced tea with a friend.
Take time to enjoy a meal and savor every bite.
Take time to look at the sunset.
Take time to be quiet and enjoy the silence.
Joe: “I was visited my grandpa and he was talking to a young bearded guy with lots of bling and tattoos. I said, ‘Who is this guy?'”
Pete: “What did your grandpa say?”
Joe: “He said, “‘This is my hip replacement.'”
Everyone has down periods, the times where we feel as if we can’t go on, but go on we must. People are counting on us. And, I assure you, your best days are up ahead, waiting for you.
“A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart.” ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
