What Matters Most

"Having without possessing is part of the supreme virtue.   The things that matter most most can be touched but not forced to linger."  Lao Tzu

Stress

"When we look deeply at the stresses we could choose to walk away from, we are forced to ask questions about our personal values."  Elizabeth Lesser

Approval

"To seek approval is to have no resting place, no sanctuary.   Approval encourages constant striving.   It makes us uncertain of who we are and of our true value.   Approval can't be trusted.   It can be withdrawn at any time no matter what our track record has been.   It is as nourishing of real growth as cotton candy.   Yet many of us spend our lives pursuing it."  Rachel Naomi Remen

Santa

"The Santa myth is one of the most effective means ever devised for
intimidating children, eroding their self-esteem, twisting their behavior,
warping their values, and slowing their development of critical thinking
skills."   Tom Flynn, The Trouble with Christmas

Surity

"The biggest cause of trouble in the world today is that the stupid people are so sure about things and the intelligent folks are so full of doubts." -- Bertrand Russell

Value

"The idea of sinfulness and selfishness of the self has trapped many lovely people all their lives in a false, inner civil war.  Fearful of valuing themselves in any way, they have shunned their own light and mystery.   Their inner world remained painfully off limits."