For this edition of [Sam]antics, I decided to decode some of the corny inspirational quotes that you find in yearbooks, scrapbooks, collages, and Facebook quote sections. Believe it or not, if you can get over the cliches and the extreme sappiness, some of them are actually pretty inspirational. So, without further ado:
“The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on the porch and swing with, never say a word, and walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you’ve ever had.”
This is one of my favorites, and something I truly believe. When you find this kind of friend, who knows what you’re going to say before you say it, who can tell how you’re feeling just by looking at you, and who will sit on the porch and swing with you because they know that’s all you need…hold on tight.
“A true friend walks in when the rest of the world walks out.”
One of the hardest times in a friendship is when one person is going through a particularly tough time. Some people can’t handle this, and either purposely or subconsciously distance themselves from their friend. The true friends realize that this is when your friend needs you most.
“When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us”–Helen Keller
Originally, I had this simple quote: “Every ending is just a new beginning.” But, Helen Keller’s version really encapsulates the message I wanted to share. Endings are so difficult, and it often seems impossible to find the good in them. But, if you spend too much time dwelling on the sadness of that ending, you might miss out on a new beginning. So, give yourself some time to regain your strength, but be sure to make the most of the opportunities that present themselves.
“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around every once in a while, you could miss it.” –Ferris Bueller
Wise words from a guy who skipped school, and so true. It’s easy to become consumed with achieving our goals, working hard, and becoming better versions of ourselves, but what good is success without happiness? It’s great to be driven and motivated, but don’t forget to put your foot on the brake every once and while and appreciate how far you’ve come.
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”–Henry David Thoreau
We all have dreams, some more lofty than others. I know there are a lot of different interpretations of this quote, but the words I focus on are “in the direction.” Dream, set goals, and then start working towards reaching them. Give it your best effort, so that even if you don’t quite get there, you’ll know that you did all you could. Another important word is “confidently.” Don’t ever let anybody discourage you from pursuing your dreams, they’re your dreams after all.
“‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” –Alfred Lord Tennyson
This is another one that sounds great until you’re actually experiencing it. Let’s be honest, heartbreak sucks, and it often takes a long time to recover. Give yourself some time, don’t force it, but when you’re ready, take a moment and look back on that love. Chances are that it taught you something pretty valuable about yourself. And, as painful as losing love may be, would you really have been happier if you had never known that feeling?
“Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.” –Forest Gump
I figured the inspiration for the concept behind this blog would be a fitting ending to this post. The reason I chose to call my blog “Life Is Like a Box of Chocolates,” is because I really believe in the wisdom of this quote. When you open a box of chocolates and take a bite of one, you’re not always sure what combination of tastes will tantalize your taste buds. Sometimes you’re happy with the chocolate you’ve chosen. It’s satisfying, and it makes you smile. Other times, it’s not what you expected, so you spit it out and try again. Such is life.
I hope you enjoyed this new take on [Sam]antics! These are my own personal interpretations of these quotes, and they may not be the same as the way they were originally intended…but, that’s the point! As always, I welcome any feedback or suggestions for future editions.
