Words are powerful stuff. Not only due to the definitions that support the words we choose to use, but more so the way we choose to perceive the impact words have on us. When we read or hear "it's going to rain today
", each of us in our own minds have a constant, almost subconscious (but not quite), "self talk" regarding what those words mean. We know what rain is and when it's going to happen, but we also consider the way those words in that order make us feel. We consider and perceive raining as either a good or bad thing. Some of us consider rain the exact way when it's mentioned: either we love it, hate it, or just don't care. Some of us alter the perception each time - and base it on how we are feeling the moment we are considering it: "It's going to rain today... " What does that mean to me? How does that make me feel?
"When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail."
This is one of my favorite Chinese proverbs. I believe it to mean: if you feel bad, you will take it out on everything around you - wanting to hit everything with your hammer. All you have is a hammer. Hammers hit nails. The harder you hit the nail with your hammer the more productive you are in driving the nail. Driving the nail feels good, bringing a sense of accomplishment... and all you have is a hammer!
A hammer is certain in my mind. By definition I know what a hammer is. I can see it in my mind when I hear the word. I understand it's purpose as a tool. But consider not knowing what a hammer was. Or not ever been shown a nail. If in your mind you defined a hammer as being - I mean really thought a hammer was - soft, warm, fuzzy and squishy for example, and a nail was like candy, the words "when all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail" would have a completely different meaning to you. Obviously. As it would raise a different feeling.
The point I am trying to convey is you can choose YOUR hammer. It doesn't have to be ALL you have! Everything is not a nail, even if that's all you can see. You dictate the tools you use in your life, your perceptions, and whatever you have - be it positive, negative, or null - you will still have "nails" to hit. =)
Your experience is your choice. Simple.
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