“Not my circus, not my monkeys.”
I’ve wanted to share this quote — a proverb, actually — with you for several weeks, ever since my daughter, Amy, shared it with me.
I laughed out loud when she showed it to me on Pinterest. And then I thought, “There’s a lot of wisdom in those six words.”
Sometimes the proverb is accompanied with this caution: Every time you feel yourself getting pulled into other people’s nonsense, repeat these words:
“Not my circus, not my monkeys.”
Humor-filled, yes. But still a great truth to start the week.
Stay focused on what is your concern.
Stay focused on who is your concern.
Don’t get pulled into other people’s stuff … because sometimes, it’s just none of our business. We can always pray about it … but we are not always called to become part of it — part of the problem or part of the solution.
In Your Words: What’s ahead for you this week? Do you have any other sayings that help you stay focused on your priorities?
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Comments 11
“Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient
unto the day is the evil thereof..” (Matt. 6:34)
Guess Jesus was a SEAL, because this can be distilled down to “the only easy day was yesterday”.
Author
Never heard that SEAL motto before, Andrew.
It’s gonna stick with me.
LOL love this, Beth! This week I am focusing on writing. I have time off work and I’m telling you, it’s not even 9 a.m. this morning and I’m already soooo tempted to be pulled into several other “circuses” which are definitely not mine. Thanks for the reminder that I’ve gotta keep my focus where it needs to be… 🙂
Author
Melissa:
I have to tell you, the monkeys are having a ball … a real three-ring circus … at my house!
I need to reread my own blog post!
I’m ecstatic that my son has adjusted the fish tank so it is no longer disturbingly noisy (by my standards). In 2+ weeks a darling young puppy moves in downstairs, under my room. New adjustments needed, but the plusses in happiness for the grandchildren plus growth (for all involved) in obedience training are worth the price tag, as I’m reminding myself now 🙂
Author
I am thrilled about the new addition to your home. It’s gonna be a wild ride — but so worth it!
Love that saying. I try to keep it in the forefront of my mind because I so easily get entangled in other peoples lives. This week I start a new book. So I’m kind of wishy-washy on a schedule. 🙂
Author
Congratulations on the new book, Pat!! Can’t wait to read it!!
Oh my goodness…this has been my BFFs and mine favorite quote of late:) LOVE it and your words that accompany it. LOL
In my neck of the woods we say, “I ain’t go no dog in that fight.”
I like the monkey quote though. Thanks for sharing.
This is the last week of “old normal,” and I want to focus on my writing as much as possible. Next week a pharmacist retires, and we’re splitting her hours instead of hiring a new person. Adjusting to the “new normal” has me a little nervous.
Have a great week!
Great poster and post, Beth. I’m pretty good at staying out of others’ business, but it hasn’t always been as easy. Reminders help.