Durham Cathedral and river banks

Quote

Nothing is softer or more flexible than water,

yet nothing can resist it.

(Lao Tzu)

Empty actions

Charitable deeds are not meant to be a public performance.

If you display compassion in order to show others your virtue,

then your actions are empty of meaning.

No matter how much you give to the poor, if you are doing it 

only to impress others, it is not charity.

(Seven Taoist Masters)

Shadows

Durham

Sticks and stones

Just discussed the following common phrase with my sister earlier today:

Sticks and stones may break my bones,

but words will never hurt me.

How untrue these words are.

Physical damage, bruises, cuts, bumps and scrapes nearly always heal so much quicker than some words.

Words can play on your mind, be harmful, be hurtful and torment you for a very long time.

We were discussing that when my sister was at school, the teacher had told her that she would never amount to anything.

This is really bad coming from someone in their position or anyone as a matter of fact. They should be encouraging and supportive.

My sister has just achieved her second degree. (A big well done).  How untrue the words from that teacher were but they had been burned into my sister's memory for a very long time. 

The teacher who had said it had long been forgotten but the words stuck.

We should all be aware at what we say to others as words can have a massive impact on others. Be encouraging and helpful.

Think of the other phrase that is commonly used:

If you have nothing nice to say,

then say nothing. 

Dogs and humans

Who loves you most?

If you locked your partner in the boot of your car along with your dog for two days,
who do you think would show unconditional love.

Your partner would surely be very annoyed but your dog would jump for joy to see you.

I do not condone trying this experiment, just stating a fact.
So why are people cruel to animals?

Think before you buy a dog, that you can show it the love it deserves.