In Others’ Words: True Success

Beth VogtIn Others' Words, Quotes, validation 6 Comments

There are many definitions of success, but this one by Dr. Kelly Flanagan tops my list: “… success is what happens when you make your true self your lived self.” We can accomplish so many things — academically, professionally, personally — but unless we are being true to ourselves, all our victories ring hollow. We can allow someone to place …

In Others’ Words: The Honest Truth

Beth VogtIdentity, In Others' Words, Quotes 10 Comments

Which would you choose: acceptance achieved by pretense or rejection caused by honesty? Living honestly? It’s risky business. Wear a mask and be well-liked. Conform to the expected behaviors and earn a pat on the back . . . a place at the table . . . a “welcome to the family” — whatever equals acceptance for you. Or replace …

In Others’ Words: The Freedom of Security

Beth VogtIn Others' Words, lifequotes, quote about identity 6 Comments

“Do exactly what you would do if you felt most secure.” I kept mulling over today’s quote as I wrote my blog post. Do I believe it? Embrace it as true? Think it’s good advice to be followed? Maybe. I’m all about honesty, after having faked my way through life for too, too long. I stopped pretending I was someone …

In Others’ Words: The Better Friend

Beth VogtFriendship, In Others' Words, Quotes 9 Comments

A few weeks ago I heard that September is National Friendship month. I liked the sound of that: a whole month celebrating, among other things, friendship. It’s also National Honey Month. And National Courtesy Month. And National Sewing Month. And National Blueberry Popsicle Month. On a more serious note, September is also National Suicide Prevention Month. And that leads me …

In Others’ Words: Share a Quote

Beth VogtIn Others' Words, Quotes 19 Comments

I’m not blogging about honesty today — I’m just being honest with you all. The truth is, I’m exhausted. The kind of tired that deposits grit in your eyes and weighs down your steps and makes you stumble over your words, to the amusement of friends and family. Earlier today I was searching for a particular word and the only …