“The doors of opportunity are opening around us all the time. You have to have the vision to see what is possible on the other side and the courage to walk through them. You never know what opportunities for greatness are waiting for you.” ~ Erin Prais-Hintz
Note: Erin is a personal friend from here in Wisconsin, and author at the Treasures Found: Inspiration is Everywhere website. As well, she designs and sells very personalized jewelry pieces at Tesori Trovati Jewelry. We have an amazingly beautiful piece she created. And it is, with the love and care that went into it’s creation, just like every piece of art she designs and creates.
Lance writes stories from his heart, aiming to inspire and motivate, as you align more fully with YOUR true peak. When he’s not here, you can find him hanging out with his family, riding a bike, or just generally acting goofy.
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I think that is so true. It’s not only opening your soul to what you need to do..but at times making sacrifices and going with your heart/gut. The beauty of life is choice..and at times it can be painful. The most important thing is not to shut down when doors open. Instead to get more connected with who you really are..and then walk through the door that feels best at the time. Most importantly releasing any ‘what ifs’ when the decision is made.
This is something that I am currently working on..huge decisions in the next two weeks. HUGE!
M
The vision has always been the easy part for me… the courage is what I’m working on now. It isn’t enough to imagine what is possible. We must also act, take some chances, start implementing our dreams. Right now I’m trying to shift my focus from, “I would like…” to “I will CREATE…”
Thanks for the reminder!
.-= Lisis´s Last Fabulous Post ..Inspiration from Osho: Three Truths About Life =-.
For me, the problem isn’t with recognizing the doors, but with recognizing too many of them. Sometimes I get overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available to me, and it gets hard to focus on picking a single one to explore in the face of so many options. I don’t like limiting myself, which is good sometimes (keeping an open mind), but it can be paralyzing when faced with decisions to be made.
.-= Jay Schryer´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Last Boy Scout =-.
Hi Lance,
Not only does Erin write beautiful quotes, but her blog posts and jewelry reflect her originality, as well. Thank you for providing the links to her sites.
I love the part of this quote that says, “…You have to have the vision to see what is possible on the other side…” I know for me, I’ve often forgotten to look at the possibilities and just accepted things as “that’s the way it is”. Maturity has taught me there’s more to life than meets the eye. Like Erin say, we need to “see” and then have the courage to take that first step.
.-= Barbara Swafford´s Last Fabulous Post ..Recipe For Blog Success =-.
HI Lance and Erin,
C u there.
What a lovely Sunday Thought…from a lovely write blogger and Jewellery designer. Wow..all these things in one person is an awesome combination.
Opportunity, vision and courage.…all put together are a sure shot way to achieving greatness in this world and in our own spiritual journey. Having the vision is easier than actually having the courage to follow through.
Thank you for this wonderful reminder.
“Jungle of life“Always my favorite place to be on a sunday
Am heading over to Erins now to read more of her beautiful writing
.-= Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..On Compassion{Inspirational Quote of the Week} =-.
Not taking things at face value — that’s something that popped into my head when I read Erin’s quote. Barbara touched on this in her comment, and I’m in the same boat: I don’t always have the foresight to see a door of opportunity and recognize what it holds. Therefore I don’t always walk to the other side with the strength and courage that’s needed. I just sit and stare at it, and then it disappears after awhile.
I liked what Michelle said, though, about trusting our gut instinct or heart in situations. Sometimes I see a door, which to others would look phenomenal, but I hear a prompt from within me that says, “That’s not your door.” When I can access the deepest part of my soul and make decisions from there, magic happens. I float more freely through life, knowing that I’m divinely led to wherever I need to be.
Thank you for this lovely quote, and for sharing Erin’s web sites. The jewelry is fantastic, and her words of wisdom are touching.
Happy Sunday!
.-= Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..It’s a Jungle Out There =-.
How true, taking the courage to look beyond and see what is on the other side empowers to step into our brilliance
thanks for the thought and the stretch
Be Abundant
Suzie
.-= Suzie Cheel´s Last Fabulous Post ..What Am I Grateful For Today? #130 =-.
Courage is always a big part of living WHO you are. What you dare to do…defines your inner spirit.
.-= Barbara Ling, Virtual Coach´s Last Fabulous Post ..Today’s Quote of the Day – If life was fair… =-.
vision and courage. two key things for success in all realms huh? from relationships to the world of work. I ADORE that this quote is from a friend, Lance.
to read my own words OR THOSE OF MY FELLOW WO/MAN.
Im not a huge fan of quotes in general and, when a friend grew frustrated with that once and asked me WHY, I brazenly told her I wish to be the one quoted
someone who isnt famous but is insightful none the less.
there is so so much wisdom all around us.
.-= Miz´s Last Fabulous Post ..First Person Friday (Perricone No Foundation giveaway post). =-.
I love this encouragement. But what’s tragic is when people don’t even recognize there is a door to go through.
.-= Yum Yucky´s Last Fabulous Post ..Fat-So Inc.: A Message From the President =-.
So many doors have been open to me just this week. I just wish I had the courage to unlock them a long time ago. But then again, God might have been using that time to prepare me for what is to come.
Someone once told me, when Plan A fails, we move to Plan B and that we should have no fear because God is already has Plan C already worked out.
.-= Joanna´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunday School =-.
Lance, the quote is spot-on as usual. When we attach to specific outcomes we often miss the opportunities and don’t see the open doors. When we do see them, we are often afraid to walk through them. Feel the fear and do it anyway as Susan Jeffers would say.
.-= Stephen — Rat Race Trap´s Last Fabulous Post ..How To Be Free, Happy, and Successful – Part I =-.
Wonderful quote, Lance and Erin. And comments on it. Miz saying “there is so so much wisdom around us” reminds me there are always many more doors around than we usually realize. Untold levels of love and light always available for the taking at the turn of a knob.
.-= Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..Yesterday, When She Was Seven =-.
@Michelle — Well, that’s a great point Michelle. Once we make that decision to go through a door, there’s no use in thinking “what if”. we have to believe that this new door is the right one for us, at this time. “What if” thinking only clouds where we’re at. And these next two weeks for you — Michelle, listen to your heart, the the doors you’re choosing WILL be the right ones…
@Lisis — This reminds me very much of dreams and goals. Without putting action behind them, they’re nothing more than nice thoughts. Keep on CREATING the life you want, Lisis. I know you and your family are actively doing this right now, in ways are very brave and courageous. And you’re welcome for the reminder, however, I really don’t think you need it at all — I see you living this every day.
@Jay — Ah, the number of doors there for us to choose from. How to choose the door that’s “right” for each of us? A great question, Jay. I think sometimes we just have to go with what feels right, and then know that that’s the best decision for us, at that moment. I know..easier said than done…
@Barbara Swafford — Hi Barbara. Erin has amazing talents, in both her writing and artistic skills. I’m lucky to know her! And this idea of possibilities…that can take vision beyond what we see with just our eyes. That can also mean looking to what is beyond and possible through that door. And taking that step can take a lot of courage, especially when the possibilites are always as clear as we’d like. If it’s the door that feels right though, then there’s much possibility there…
@Zeenat — Hi Zeenat. I find that everything Erin does, comes from the heart. And that’s a pretty awesome “lovely” for sure! And yes, we can have the vision…and then it’s the courage to step through the door and see the vision unfold. Great thoughts, Zeenat. Thank you!
@Megan — Megan, this is all so true for me too. It’s like seeing that door, and maybe only opening it part way, and not fully seeing what could be beyond. And maybe that’s the courage part of this, having the courage to fuly open those doors and really look into what’s there and beyond. When we listen to our heart, this becomes much easier. Although I know that listening to our heart sometimes gets overruled by our heads…and then we might miss something that is deeply good for us. I do also think that if we miss a few doors, there are more doors there, too. And there’s much hope in that for all of us! And yes, Erin creates some very wonderful pieces of jewelry!
@Suzie — “…step into our brilliance.” –> I love that thought, Suzie! It’s there, in all of us…brilliance. The thing is, are we letting it out, by courageously going through these doors of opportunity? Great thought!
@Barbara Ling — Our inner spirit is really where the real us lives. And it can take courage to let that out, in the face of what’s “expected” of us. When we do, though, what a great place to be!
@Miz — Thanks much, Carla. Vision and courage can really take us all to new heights, can’t they! And Erin’s quote really epitomizes this. And having her quote here, it does feel more “real” or something I can relate to. And while I do connect very much with quotes, it has to be the right quote to make it deeply meaningful for me. Erin’s quote really does speak that to me. Thanks, as always, for your insight…
@Yum Yucky — It’s like we sometimes get blinders on, isn’t it. And the doors aren’t even noticed. I’m sure I’ve missed my fair share of them in the past. Wherever we are though, it’s not too late to really stop and look around at what’s there — for each of us…
@Joanna — Very cool, Joanna! And maybe things happen for a reason, and you’re at this spot now, and it’s the right spot for you to be at. Indeed, God sometimes has plans for us that we don’t always see or recognize. Reminds me of a saying that I like…“Let go, and let God”. Joanna, I wish you the courage going through these opened doors!
@Stephen — I like that — “feel the fear and do it anyway”! It can take a lot of courage to go through these doors sometimes, especially when they take us out of our comfort zone. When we do, though, great things can happen!
@Jannie — Doors everywhere, right Jannie! It’s just having the courage to open them up, and then step on through. And when we do, who knows what amazing love and light can come into our life, and the lives of those we touch! Awesome!
I love the quote and Erin’ s jewelry is beautifully unique.
I think opportunity is sometimes overlooked either we are scared of change or we simply aren’t seeing what maybe obvious to others around us. Maybe identifying opportunity becomes easier as we become older and wiser.
Who knows ???
Great post ~ have a fantastic week
.-= BunnygotBlog´s Last Fabulous Post ..I Remember 911 =-.
Hey Lance! Sorry I haven’t been here in a while — still working on big things coming soon
As a hint, you could say that I’ve seen one of the doors that has been talked about in the above quote. It’s thanks to my courage that I stepped through in the first place.
.-= John´s Last Fabulous Post ..It’s Survey Time: Personal Goal Setting =-.
Fabulous quote and picture as always
Blessings
Jeanne?
.-= Jeanne´s Last Fabulous Post ..Womanhood =-.
Beautiful quote from Erin, and Lance I loved the picture. Juxtaposed with the quote, I immediately saw that in my life, the doors are my own creations. What if there are no doors, but just open space all around me like in the picture? Why do I need to separated what is whole? Thanks for these thoughts today, Erin and Lance.
.-= Daphne @ Joyful Days´s Last Fabulous Post ..Why Letting Go is Hard and How to Let Go =-.
Great quote, Lance. Reading it makes me feel hopeful, and inspired. Have a wonderful week!
.-= Jodi at Joy Discovered´s Last Fabulous Post ..Off the Shelf: 365 Tao~Time =-.
We never know indeed… what is truly waiting unless we allow ourselves to take a chance, take a risk, try, leap.…
This world offers so much opportunity for us. Our lives are filled with so much potential. However often our fears and reservations stop us from living these out. Thus this is a great quote Lance to inspire others to think, to just ponder what may be and perhaps be moved to act on something they have been suppressing all this time…
Happy Sunday
.-= Evita´s Last Fabulous Post ..My Big TOE Author Thomas Campbell’s Toronto Workshop — Day 1 =-.
Hi Lance! Awesome picture and quote. There are many doors out there (I was as overwhelmed by the choices as Jay stated) but finding the right one, I’ve discovered, requires that we be still — as in the lovely photo you placed with this quote. Stillness isn’t something that most people are that comfortable with — we “make time” for it, if and when we can. It’s a hidden blessing of old age to be content being still — wish I had done more of it years ago!
.-= suzen´s Last Fabulous Post ..Juggling Life =-.
Isn’t this just such a true and inspirational thought. I often wonder what opportunities I miss each day by not watching for them, or being hesistant to follow them.
I know there were many I missed during my struggling years, but am so grateful that I didn’t miss them all. Thank you for this lovely thought.
.-= Diane Fit to the Finish´s Last Fabulous Post ..Seeing With A Purpose =-.
Hi Lance and Erin!
I love coming here on Sundays for a dose of inspiration. It is great to be able to peek into your doorway while simultaneously being surrounded by all of your awesome friends here in the comments (hi everyone!).
Erin, good for you! I’m heading over to your site for my next stop. Thanks for the lift today, and for the great reminder that just because we may be able to see an opportunity, we have to muster the courage to take the next step and fully embrace it!
.-= Lori´s Last Fabulous Post ..Liking the Lichens =-.
Really great quote today, Lance! I love it!!!
.-= Positively Present´s Last Fabulous Post ..words to live by: send it on =-.
Hi Lance and Erin,
It is funny.…I have always been the kind of person who always had the courage to do whatever I felt like doing and with time, coming to see the doors has become easier. I have recently realized that not everyone has the courage and it surprises me. I say this not with arrogance but with sincere shock and sadness. For years, I have always been the odd one going after all my dreams and I have gotten a lot of flack over the years for living that way. It always struck me as odd because I never understood their reaction. It is heartbreaking to know that there is so much fear that holds people back. However, that said, it is great to know and see that there are people out there helping others to rise above those illusions of limitation.
I love your thought for the day!
but on the other hand,
I have found in my life that some of the doors of opportunity had to be kicked open
before I could walk lamely through!
I never lacked the courage, My battle has gone on for 67 years.
Winston
Hi Lance!
I often wonder how many doors I’ve missed over the years, because I didn’t allow myself to use the vision that would show me what was on the other side.
The opposite of this is true for me to, some doors are just closed, permanently and I try to create a vision that will allow me to stay within a closed, comfortable box. It always ends up being a mirage eventually, my vision clears up and I move past my old way of living, into the truly great unknown.
This is a great quote for helping us navigate the Jungle of Life Lance, I love the way your blog and more importantly your mission, flows.
.-= Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..Back to God =-.
Hi Lance .. Erin: great quote — sometimes it is having a look through the door and just letting things mull through, then you can really decide — that it is a good opportunity. I loved the jewellery — talented friend .. thanks for letting us know about her.
All the best — Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
.-= Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sting like a bee? Dance like a bee? =-.
I read somehwere that we have to learn to stop focusing on the doors that are closed in order to see the windows that are open.
This is a wonderful picture and quote for today as I have been working with my daughter on seeing the opportunities — recognizing the fear that open windows might bring and seeing what lies beyond that fear when we make the jump to follow our hearts and take the risks. It is sometimes easy to see the opportunities and yet difficult to take the jump. Other times, it is difficult to note the windows as we focus so hard on controling the environment and being safe.
Learning to trust our gut and heart is so very important — trust … it is a wonderful thing.
.-= The Exception´s Last Fabulous Post ..Like the Color Purple =-.
I love this, Lance ~ it just makes me sigh with happiness.
Thank you for your blog and being you
I always leave here refreshed and happy.
I’m so sorry that I haven’t been around more lately!
Smiles of gratitude,
Bella
P.S. Totally off the subject but are you on Facebook?
.-= Bella´s Last Fabulous Post ..{ { { { { My Hair Is On Fire! } } } } } =-.
Hi Lance, my Mum always says, “When one door closes, another one opens.” Sometimes the door that opens looks scary but if you have the courage to walk through, there is often some sort of greatness waiting on the other side.
Love the pic too by the way. Very serene.
.-= Sami — Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s Last Fabulous Post ..Friday Question – Dream a Little & Big Dream =-.
I see everything that is happening as an opportunity, even if it’s merely the chance to learn and grow. Erin’s website and jewelry are beautiful and inspiring. Have a great week!
.-= Diane AZ´s Last Fabulous Post ..Spiny Metal =-.
Mmmmm.…I like this one. Your friend is very wise. And the picture is gorgeous, Lance.
I think of the opportunity idea as a skiing metaphor (I was once fortunate enough to spend a winter in Alta UT) There are always going to be trees we could hit as we ski down the mountain-just like challenging times in life. We can’t wish away the trees; they are a part of the mountain. But we do have the choice of where to keep our gaze. When I was learning to ski as an adult, someone said, “Always look at the spaces between the trees and that is where your skis will go.” And I think of that all the time in my life. I look for the spaces between the trees instead of looking at the trees. It takes a trust and a letting go. And I always seem to ski my way through to the doors to the opportunities Erin talks about.
well done…Lance-a-lot.
.-= Katie West/The Levity Coach´s Last Fabulous Post ..Word of the Week: Outlandish =-.
One view is you require no opportunity to realize greatness. This revelation is something you trigger anytime you are ready, and you do so within yourself. It is part of an inward journey to unconditional love and acceptance. There is no need to pursue happiness. It is all you are now.
.-= Liara Covert´s Last Fabulous Post ..What if you choose to believe? =-.
I’ve been afraid to walk through so many doors and I’ve almost always regretted it. As I age I realize that I have to at least walk through the door and peak on the other side. It’s why I started my blog. I wanted to make a go of it and see what would happen.
My blog is now one of my greatest achievements of my life. Because of this lesson I’ve learned to stop being afraid of those doorways and just walk through. Well…I’m still afraid, but I accept this fear and face it and try to do what will bring me the most knowledge.
.-= Karl — Work Happy Now´s Last Fabulous Post ..Do You Conference? =-.
Beautiful Lance. All of it. I would even add this.
Sometimes we can’t see anything on “the other side”.
No matter how hard we try we have no vision.
We must still have the courage to walk through the door to the otherside.
And then SOMETIMES we can’t see what is on the other side AND.…
we feel NO courage,
but we must STILL walk through the door to the other side.…
even if our knees quake all the way.
To act in the absence of courage is the greatest courage of all.
Love,
Robin
.-= Robin Easton´s Last Fabulous Post ..Dare to Take Risks =-.
@Bunny — Hi Bunny. Erin’s jewelry is very unique, and what really makes it special is how she creates pieces that speak to the connection with the individual it’s designed for. And that IS beautiful! It can be easy to overlook opportunity, just going through the motions of life. And sometimes, older and wiser is better. Other times, young and brave can be just what works too. Who knows, indeed… You too, have a wonderful week.
@John — Good for you, stepping through the door! Looking forward to what you have coming!
@Jeanne — Thanks much Jeanne!
@Daphne — Thank you, Daphne. We create the doors…I love that thought! Some doors are there, and some we create. The question then, is are we taking the courage to create our own doors? Some great things to think about.
@Jodi — Hi Jodi. I too find much inspiration in this quote.
@Evita — Happy Sunday, Evita! Opportunity is there, for all of us. Fear. That thing that gets in the way. That holds us back. And when we can step into that fear, and then move beyond it — those doors become more visible…
@Suzen — Hi Suzen! Being still…that’s a great observation. when we stop and really listen to our hearts, the “right” doors become more obvious. Suzen, this is so good, thank you for sharing!
Hi Lance: You quoted a friend of yours, that’s great. I think that many times we have a vision in our head of what we want and when an opportunity presents itself, if it looks different from what we had envisioned, we disregard it. However, it might have been an even better opportunity for us. I believe in having a clear vision of what you want, but having enough flexibility to be able to recognize when the universe is offering us something different but equally as great, or even better.
.-= Marelisa´s Last Fabulous Post ..119 Journal Prompts for Your Journal Jar =-.
@Diane — So, that’s an interesting thought, Diane. This idea of not watching for them, which really probably fits along the same lines of what Suzen mentioned — of being still. Or maybe even just slowing down, sometimes. I know I can cruise through life oftentimes just trying to get from point A to point B…and not really seeing anything in between. So, I love this thought — it reminds me to slow down…so I can see the door that are there. And even if we miss doors — we can look to today and forward — and what we’ll do from here on out… Thanks again, Diane!
@Lori — Hi Lori. It’s great to have you here! Along with everyone else, and all the wisdom, all the honesty, all the real-ness shared so openly. Having courage…that can be a big step — especially when we don’t know exactly where that door is leading…
@Positively Present — Thanks much Dani!
@Nadia — Hi Nadia. Thanks so much for sharing part of your journey, and how courage has been a real enabler for you. Nadia, I’m always impressed with your words which seem to touch right to the core. These doors, when we see them — we should embrace where they can lead us, especially when they’re doors that have come from our heart…
@Winston — Thanks much, Winston. So, some doors we find aren’t always open. And that means if they are doors we really desire to passs through, then it might take extra work to get them open. Keep believing…that’s the thought that comes to my mind here. Keep on being courageous!
@Audra — Hi Audra. I’m sure, no matter how courageous, or how visionary — we’ve all missed doors along the way. I know I’ve missed my share. And yet, I’m also at a place I’m very happy with too. And staying within that box…that place of comfort — this is very real, and a very great point. Sometimes we put up doors with locks, so that we stay where we’re at. And until we’re able to embrace those doors, and open them up, we are stepping out into that GREAT unknown. So true. And another place I’ve also been. Audra, it’s always so good to have you here…thank you, deeply, for being you…
@Hilary — Hi Hilary. We all approach life moments differently. And this idea of letting it mull around for a bit — this is one that is so worth mentioning. Sometimes this can be really good, especially for the right individual. It might mean time spent in quiet, really listening to what you’re hearing. And in those moments, the answer will come — and that’s when we know if this is a door that is right for us to pass through. And to Erin’s work — she is an amazing and talented artist — and her work is so filled with love — which shines through so beautifully in her creations! Thanks so much, Hilary.
@The Exception — The “doors closed vs. the windows open” is a great way to look at this, also! I can relate to this idea of seeing the opportunity and yet finding it difficult to jump. It’s kind of like sticking your head out to see what it’s like, but not sure if you should go all the way out. Hmm…this really has me thinking how I handle these “moments”, really. Trust…such a good word here in the context of this quote. We have to trust in ourselves, that what when we’re listening to our heart, that is the right place for us to be…
@Bella — Bella, so good to see you here! And you always bring a smile to my face! Here’s to seeing the “doors” in our life, and having the courage to go through them. And P.S. — hey, you found me!! Awesome to connect even more with you!
@Sami — In case no one has ever told you, your Mum is very wise! (you should listen to her…more often!) And the scary parts of these doors is really the unknown, or what might seem “different”. I know you’re walking through some pretty awesome doors right now…and I think that’s so great! And glad you loved the picture — something about the sun beyond the platform really felt like opportunity waiting on the other side of the door…
@Diane AZ — Hi Diane. And that’s a great way to view life’s moments — as opportunities. We’re surrounded by them, and there’s so much there if we’re just open to what might be. And I’m so glad you enjoyed your visit to Erin’s site — I think her work is incredible!
@Katie — And I find the wisdom here is something that comes from the heart…and Erin’s is a heart of gold! Just like yours… Ah, a winter in Utah…this sounds so filled with magical moments. And your skiing metaphor — it’s so good, Katie! Trees…much like the obstactles we encounter in life — if we focus on them, they stop us. when we look beyond, though, to the openings, to the doorways, we can see the possibilities that lie within our reach. Keep on skiing through those doorways, through the openings, Katie — it’s a gift for me to witness this in you! And see you soaring to new heights along the way!
@Liara — Hi Liara. The journey inward…this is such a great journey to embark upon. when we go within, when we touch upon that space deep in our soul, the doors are there.
@Karl — Karl, your honesty here is refreshing and real. And that is so appreciated. I’ve been there too, afraid to go through certain doors. What would others think? Will it change my financial status? Will I embarrass myself? A couple examples of questions that limit us in these doorways of life. And your blog, Karl, is a shining example of going to new heights and seeing the greatness that lies beyond the doorway. What a gift you’re creating, for so many to benefit from. Keep speaking your authentic self, and I know it’s the right place for you to be…
@Robin Easton — Thank you, Robin. And so, sometimes it just in trusting ourselves in that this is the “right” thing for us to do. Robin, what a great point. When we can’t see anything on the other side, when don’t really have a vision of what is — if our heart is still telling us to take those steps — they are so worth taking — difficult as they may be. And sometimes this will feel like we want to just curl up and forget all about that door — yet, this is the one that is probably most worth pursuing. And that can be an act in the absence of courage… Thank you, Robin, for all your beautiful wisdom and love.
@Marelisa — Hi Mare. And Erin is so wonderful, kind, and just simply “real”. Yes, those visions that look one way, and then appear differently — they can be easy to pass up. But just because it’s not exactly as we’ve envisioned it, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing. Marelisa, this is such a wonderful addition to this thought — the idea of being flexible to the vision — and where that can truly lead us! Awesome!
I live by this quote everyday. Even though it’s Sunday night and I’m tired, I will still continue to believe and work toward my goal.
I just finished tomorrow’s post and am ready for a new challenge.
Thanks Lance for putting a smile on my face at the end of a long day.
.-= LisaNewton´s Last Fabulous Post ..Sunset on Mount Soledad Mountain =-.
Hi Lance. I’ve just checked out Erin’s website and her jewellery is gorgeous. She clearly has the vision to see what is possible… Brilliant!
.-= Davina´s Last Fabulous Post ..Island Thyme Bed & Breakfast =-.
To all the Jungle-lovers…
I am so honored to be able to play along with Lance today for the Sunday Thought of the Day. It really was my “something good” when he asked me to participate!
I have a soft spot for quotes, as I think that there is such wisdom when you can distill it down to the very essence. This quote is something that I have honed over the past 2 years or so…for my own story it comes from having vision and courage. And lest you think that I am this comletely fearless and self-confident person, let me tell you that it is something that I have to be conscious of, to work at. But knowing this I certainly appreciate the opportunities that I have been given and never forget that I have many to thank for those chances. I have noticed that when I am more mindful of the potential of a situation, it most likely works in my favor. Perhaps that is just seeing the glass as half full, but I think that it is more than this.
When you project a positive aura and you open yourself to all the Universe has to offer, it is my experience that it likely will come to you when you need it most, whatever “it” is for you. Sometimes all it takes is to speak it. There is some power in words said aloud rather than just kept in your head. As an example…before I officially started my jewelry company, I was having a meeting with a woman at a local non-profit about ways they were asking me to help. At the end of the productive meeting, we sat around chatting when she mentioned that she was getting married in the fall. Now, I could have said, “How nice for you! Congratulations!” but instead I said, “I do wedding jewelry!” Never mind that I had never done a wedding! A door opened and I don’t even know what possessed me to say those words, but I did, and it lead to the largest single order that I have ever had (8 bridesmaids, 3 friends and the bride), a connection with a local custom goldsmith who asked to carry my work in a special display case for 1 1/2 years, and my first published piece of wearable art. All because I was willing and had the courage to walk on through that door! So many good things have happened and that energizes me and has me seeking more doors.…..
I am so amazed by the depth of thinking of the people who follow Lance and The Jungle of Life. You have really touched me with your kind and thoughtful words and most importantly for furthering a very intriguing conversation.
“Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day.” ~Anonymous
Thanks for being my “something good” today!
Enjoy the day!
Erin Prais-Hintz
Tesori Trovati Jewelry
.-= Erin Prais-Hintz´s Last Fabulous Post ..Dare to…Count Your Blessings =-.
Lance…
I do believe that you and your friends “get it”…very highly regarded in my book!
However, I need to tell you of my appreciation of your PHOTOS…you always chose just the right photo to accompany your blog post…you must be a have an eye for it…since meditation is my thing…I adored your photo and thought it was spot on for the depth of quote!
Keep Rocking it Lance! You inspire all of us!
.-= Deb´s Last Fabulous Post ..iphone yourself HAPPY! =-.
Vision and courage say it all.
.-= J.D. Meier´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Power of Patterns and Practices =-.
Hi Lance and Erin,
I have to add my appreciation for this wonderful quote. For most of my pessimistic lifetime I really struggled to see doors, or else I could only see reasons to stay where I was rather than reasons to open them and walk through.
Over the last five or six years I’ve transformed my outlook on life, and now I see doors everywhere
Finding the courage to walk through usually takes a while, but more and more I take the necessary steps.
Erin, I might have to borrow your quote sometime, cos I do quotes on Mondays. And I like the “something good” one too
.-= Hilda´s Last Fabulous Post ..Allowing others the freedom to grow =-.
Erin’s quote is wonderful. Finding courage to walk through those doors.… something my dad is facing right now to find the proper care for my mother.
.-= Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Compliment, the cheesiest and background music =-.
Hi Lance:
Thanks for sharing this very inspiring quote. It is important for all of us to realize all of the possibilities and potential for good that surround us on a daily basis. I love the really peaceful photo as well.
.-= Tim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Having Fun With Social Media =-.
Lance such true words! It’s hard to take the leap sometimes. I have to remind myself constantly that avoiding risks to avoid failure is actually.…. me failing!
Be brave, when opportunity knocks fling the door up and jump in it’s lap! ha ha
.-= Natalia Burleson´s Last Fabulous Post ..Smoothies! =-.
Hi Lance,
I’m the one who gets so excited I kick down the door and often jump in before being totally prepared. I also have had to learn years back how to go from aggresive to assertive. Instead of being a door kicker I’m a gentle knocker and it’s worked much better but hey, no opportunities are going by me!
.-= Tess The Bold Life´s Last Fabulous Post ..It’s All About You =-.
Erin is full of inspiration and I hope to meet up with her someday! Can you believe we live in the same town?!
.-= Lisa’s Chaos´s Last Fabulous Post ..Getting a handle on Macro Monday =-.
@LisaNewton — Believing…so important. Believing in ourselves, believing in our heart, believing in the good of humanity. Glad to have you here, Lisa, and sharing this. It’s so good to really let belief become part of us.
@Davina — Erin creates beautiful jewelry…and that’s a vision that I believe comes directly from her heart!
@Deb — Hi Deb. Thank you! I really put a lot of my focus into matching up a photo to go along with the story/quote. In fact, sometimes I think I spend too much time on this! It really feels “right”, though, for me to find that picture that speaks to me in relation to the message. So, know that your words here today are a bit of validation on what I’m doing is the right thing. And thank you for being here!
@J.D. Meier — Vision and courage together is quite a combination, isn’t it!
@Hilda — Hi Hilda. I’ve been there too — either not looking for the doors, or not opening the doors that did appear. It seems we’re really on a similar path through life! It was about five years ago that my life took a major turn, one that has taken me on this path I’m on today. So glad that we’ve gotten to know each other over these last many months. Keep seeing the doors out there, Hilda, and know I’ll support you any way I can as you go through doors and into newness in your life.
@Lynn — Not necessarily an easy door, I’m sure, for your father (and for you). Know that I wish your father only the best in finding care that is good for your mother.
@Tim — Hi Tim. Possibilities abound, don’t they! It’s in us seeing them, and then having the courage to act. When we get to this spot, we are going through these doors that Erin discusses so beautifully in this quote, and what a great place to travel to!
@Natalia — Hi Natalia. Oh, that’s good. When we see these doors, and yet don’t have the courage to go through them, especially those doors which speak loudly to us — this is failing. And it is, because we’re giving up on a piece of our heart. So, here’s to being brave, and taking those chances. And really and deeply experiencing what’s on the other side. Natalia, thank you for this.
@Tess — I’m laughing, Tess! And I am, because I believe what you’re saying very much. After all, just look at the name of your site — “The Bold Life”! And I think that’s awesome that you get excited by the doors you “see”, and that you jump right in. Way cool!
@Lisa’s Chaos — Hi Lisa. Erin is full of beautiful inspiration! And that you two live in the same town is way too awesome!
Erin,
It has been so wonderful to have you here and sharing these beautiful words you’ve crafted. Like everything else I’ve witnessed in you, this too comes from deep in your heart. And that’s what makes it so wonderful and filled with beauty!
And this idea of opening ourselves up to all the Universe has to offer — this is just filled with so much abundance when I read that! The Universe has more than enough for all of us — especially when we’re listening deeply to our hearts in all of this. Erin, just like your example with the wedding jewelry, this IS possible for everyone. It’s in seeing that door of opportunity, being brave, and passing through that door.
Erin, once again, thank you for being here and sharing this quote. It has been an honor for me to have your presence here, and know that you have been, and continue to be, someone great in my life!
I love opportunities and I’m very aware that it’s all around me. But oftentimes the curves of life prevents me from exploring it. I have to focus to grab it back.
It’s hard to be courageous when you are scared.
Thanks, Lance, for your role in helping me be less of a chicken.
.-= Angel´s Last Fabulous Post ..Team Love Eshe =-.
Love it. You also have to remember to look for those open doors when it seems like there aren’t any.
.-= FatFighterTV´s Last Fabulous Post ..ME Sparkling Beverages giveaway =-.
The journey inward empowers you to remember the meaning of heart consciousness. Opportunities are everywhere you choose to create them and disregard them.
.-= Liara Covert´s Last Fabulous Post ..What could happen with a pole shift? =-.
Hi Lance, it’s good to be back. I enjoyed the quote. It reminds me of one of my favourite parts of life coaching; opening the door for other folk to enter and explore new territories if they want to. Sometimes they may not have seen the door or had the bravery to open it or venture in by themselves.
.-= janice´s Last Fabulous Post ..The House of the Thousand Horrormoans =-.
Vision and courage. Now what a world this could be if we all lived with those two qualities!
.-= Ian | Quantum Learning´s Last Fabulous Post ..You make a difference =-.
Yes, doors are always knocking and opening. The challenge, I think, is quieting ourselves long enough to hear and see them!
.-= Stacey Shipman´s Last Fabulous Post ..Taking a Break to Manage Day to Day Overwhelm =-.
@Walter — Awareness of opportunities is the first step, so that’s a great first start!
@Angel — Angel, I know (know, know, know!) that you are filled with much courage! And it shows in both your daily work helping people to become stronger and healthier, as well as in the big one-time challenges you’re taking on (which I think is so, so awesome!). Angel, you put a great big smile on my face today…rock on, my friend!
@FatFighterTV — Hi Sahar. Yes, sometimes those doors aren’t always so easy to spot, and that means taking the time to really “notice” what’s out there around you. Great point!
@Liara — The journey inward…is where these true doors are revealed.
@Janice — Janice, it’s so good to see you! And thanks for bringing up life coaching. Having worked with a life coach myself, I know exactly what you mean about this. Having another set of eyes, eyes that aren’t jaded by our past — to look at where we are and where we’re going, can really help to bring into focus some doors we may never have noticed being there before.
@Ian — Yes, if we could all live by following our true vision, and then have the courage to live that — what an even more amazing place this world would be!
@Stacey Shipman — And This is so true, this idea of quieting ourselves down to see the doors, because when we don’t — we go through our days focused on the “room” we’re already in. And in the rush that life can become, how can we notice these other doors, if we’re running so fast already. We can’t. And that’s why what you’re saying is such a great point. We have to consciously focus on slowing down and quieting our minds and bodies, so that we can “hear” that inner voice, which is the “key” to doors all around us.
Lance,
Great quote! Yes, we must be aware to see the doors and then summon the courage to cross the threshold.
.-= Mark´s Last Fabulous Post ..Allowing Others To Be – Not Forcing Our Beliefs On Others =-.
thank you, Lance, for what you give to those all around you.….
blessings.…CG
.-= CG Walters´s Last Fabulous Post ..Gift of the Bear =-.
Yes…courage and vision. Love this quote Lance! I have always been fascinated by doors…always wondering what is on the other side…
.-= Caroline´s Last Fabulous Post ..Offering =-.
@Mark — Thank much! Awareness is the first step…and then courage to take those steps…which can sometimes seem a bit scary, not knowing where they’ll lead to.
@CG — Thanks so much for being here, my friend.
@Caroline — Doors, and what’s on the other side. Caroline, that is really intriguing — this concept of curiosity for the other side. Yes, I think we are wondering — yet when we can’t clearly see — it becomes easy to “hold back”. I’m really loving this thought!