“Two things to remember in life. Take care of your thoughts when you are alone and Take care of your words when you are with people.” ~Unknown

Isn’t that a great quote?

Generally, I believe we try hard to watch what we say. Most of us don’t ever want to intentionally hurt other people with our words. I am not so sure we watch our thoughts though.

My husband was abused as a child and although he survived that (and thrives!) it has taken him a long time to understand that the uncared for thoughts in his head are very damaging to his healing, growth and life today.

I wasn’t abused as a child and I have the same struggle.

Do you ever take the time to really listen to those thoughts? Would you allow someone to talk to your child the way your thoughts talk to you? Would you allow them to talk to your mom that way?

My guess is that you wouldn’t, but isn’t it amazing that you will let your thoughts talk to you that way.

I believe that the two most powerful words of this quote are take care. Care is defined as feeling concern or interest; attach importance to something; look after and provide for the needs of. A lot of us do this with other people and yet we don’t so much when it comes to ourselves.

How Can You Take Care?

How can you take care of your thoughts so as to take care of yourself? How can we be a little kinder and a little more understanding of ourselves?

Kindness starts by being kind to ourselves first. If that means you were abused as a child, be kind to the inner child. After all, he did help you to survive the abuse. If your thoughts are always trying to tell you could have or should have done more or done better, honor that inner voice and remember that you can only do your best each day.

You are important. You need to and should look after and provide for the needs of your body, soul and mind. Take care of yourself and you won’t do anything less for others.