When you start expecting from other people, there will be no end to it. And let me tell you: The most difficult thing is to satisfy all the people around you. Do you think you can satisfy all the people, all the time? Never. It is the most impossible thing to do on Planet Earth.
A small story:
A husband and wife were celebrating their fifty years of marriage.
The wife presented the husband with two shirts for the occasion.
He was very touched and declared that they would go out for dinner instead of cooking at home.
It was a very tender moment for them.
He freshened up and to make his wife happy, wore one of the gift shirts and appeared from his room.
As he came down, she looked up and smiled, but soon her expression changed and she said, “So the other shirt is no good?”
(Laughter!)
It is not possible to make another totally happy. First of all, you satisfy yourself; you find fulfillment in your self, that is enough. And let this fulfillment have nothing to do with the people around you. Let it be just a bubbling Energy inside you, irrespective of the conditions and people outside. That is enough.
It is good to do something for others; it is good to give attention, give respect – but out of a deep energizing love, not out of fear; not because we are afraid that they will take away their certificates. Never invest so much in others’ opinions that they become the center of your life. Don’t make others as the source of your energy. Don’t depend on others for your psychological survival.
When you are dependent on others for your happiness, you are giving them control of your life. Be your own source of Energy and inspiration! Come to a clear understanding that real joy is not possible when you place your center on someone else. If you understand this, half the problem is solved.
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This excerpt has been taken from the book: Guaranteed Solutions.