Yesterday I visited Sherry's blog and she introduced me to Don Miguel, not personally of course, but to his Four Agreements. If you visit her (and I suggest you do), you will find out more about Don Miguel than I can tell you. I can only say that his first agreement struck a chord deep within my soul.
THIS, is why I started calligraphy. THIS, is why I constantly seek new words of conviction, strength, love and encouragement to pass onto others. THIS is my most cherished belief...
The Four Agreements:
Agreement 1
Be impeccable with your word - Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Agreement 2
Don’t take anything personally - Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.
Agreement 3
Don’t make assumptions - Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Agreement 4
Always do your best - Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.
And with these wise words may you too go confidently
in the direction of your dreams...
in the direction of your dreams...
Honestly, you inspire me each and EVERY day. How do you do that?!? I love this post, and the value in the words written. Those words are so powerful~
ReplyDeletexx
Thank you for sharing these priceless words...I needed that today............
ReplyDeleteBeth
The Four Agreements is really good and seems so simple...easier said than done. And of course, love your art!
ReplyDeleteMimi - if I could inspire someone (especially someone as lovely as you) every day then I will be able to say that I have fulfilled my life's goal!
ReplyDeleteBeth - There'll always be some encouragement here. Thanks for stopping by!
Lisa - Much easier said than done. Numbers 1 & 2 are the easiest for me (although I do go off my nut at my kids from time to time). I was raised with number for so it's almost second nature. It's the'expressing what I really want' bit which has always been hardest for me. I reckon that's pretty 'female' behaviour ;-) Keeping an eager eye out for your next post!
I adore The Four Agreements (it's on my wish list). The advice seems so simple but it's impact is huge. Imagine what the world would be like if we all made (and kept) those four little agreements with ourselves. :)
ReplyDeleteBTW ... tomorrow's challenge on Reduce Footprints is from your suggestion. Thanks, so much, for the idea ... it's brilliant!
Small Footprints
http://reducefootprints.blogspot.com
I use the Four Agreements when teaching my Senior students about leadership. Teaching in an all girl's school has shown me the worst of nasty "mean girl" behaviors and it all starts with words-they speak via the web, cell phones or even face-to-face,without thinking first. The word is a powerful tool- it can destroy or it can teach and reach others.Thank God we have people like you to do the latter. Thank you for your beautiful words. Best wishes, NM.
ReplyDeleteHI Ange
ReplyDeleteSuch fine words to live by. It has been many years since I have read this book and perhaps a timely re-read when I finish 'The Project That Took My Life' ha ha
Sorry... not really making light of it... I think the words are wonderful, true and wise
Take care and have a fabulous week xx Julie
Julie - I would add another agreement that would make life easier for everyone.... Never take ourselves too seriously! Lightening up a serious situation is also a way of making every one's life richer! Laughter is the music of the soul!
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful agreements! Very inspiring indeed...thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThese are so wonderful Ange. Something to live up to and value. Thanks for the timely reminder. xx
ReplyDeleteI love these four agreements. I wish they were taught in school, at a very young age, along with how to live healthy, care for our planet and maybe a few other things. Thank you for sharing these, always wonderful to see them again. I love how they have inspired you as well.
ReplyDeleteNow if only I can remember #2 *sigh*
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the comments everyone - we could have some wonderful discussions on this topic. It's one very close to my heart! Sherry #2's your life's goal then ;-) And Small - I'm pleased my suggestion can inspire. just have to remember to stop eating the kids left overs myself of course!
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