AN EMPTY PURSE FRIGHTENS FRIENDS AWAY

By Vernalee

An empty purse frightens away friends is an English proverb which means that when one’s financial situation deteriorates, friends tend to disappear. When the cash is plentiful, so are the friends. They are everywhere. You can’t get rid of them … but are they really friends? Prolific author Thomas Fuller said and I quote, “He’s my friend who speaks well of me behind my back. If you have one friend, you have more than your share.” We were taught, “If they are your friends, they will be with you through thick and thin.” If they disappear when the cash is low, they were only there for the benefits, not the friendship. They fit the bill, “Nobody knows you when you’re down and out!” You don’t need fake friends – whether you are up or down; with cash or not. It’s better now than later that you found them out! By the way, this proverb is gender neutral. For my guys, I didn’t want to leave you out, (the same is true for an empty wallet), so this one applies to you too!

Photo credit: naswithnotepads.com

NO MAN IS AN ISLAND

By Vernalee

I have heard many people say, “I don’t need nobody! I can do everything for myself. I was born alone and will die alone!” Although we enter and exit this world all alone, the in between time doesn’t necessarily fit that description. To those who think that they need no one, think again! When and if the waters of life eventually invade your presence and you are in a boat alone without paddles, how will you get to dry land? Assistance, security, relief from loneliness, love, friendship, companionship….are some of the benefits of having others in our lives. The need for people doesn’t signify weakness; to the contrary, it demonstrates strength! There is strength in numbers! We all need someone in our lives – to talk to, to love, to be with, to hold….to be a part of our existence. I certainly do! You do too! Never forget that islands were once connected to a continent. May I remind you that our creator in his infinite wisdom concluded that “it was not good for man to be all alone!” Who knew better than The Father?

WHEN PEOPLE ARE DOWN - DON'T KICK - HELP

By Vernalee

When people are down or “hard on their luck,” they need to be helped/picked up; not kicked further downwards! Why kick someone when they are already on the ground; be it physical or emotional!

Many of you may say, I’ll never do such a deplorable thing! My feet stay on the ground! If you look beyond the physical kick, have you kicked someone; perhaps emotionally? Have you kicked someone with derogatory language or via verbal abuse? A kick is a kick!

Remember this.

One interesting concept about courageous resilient folks when they are down is that many have the intestinal fortitude to eventually rise up! They may also have “not so fond” memories of your kicking foot! Remember … payback is not always kind! It will feel no different than the kick that you gave them! Photo credit: forums. stations.sony.com