Consider the Source

The last few months have been a struggle. Why, you ask? I’ve felt exhausted mentally, physically, and emotionally. Everyone faces a lack of inspiration from time to time and I think I’ve found the cause.

Enter negative people who I barely know. People who distribute criticism like promotion flyers on Michigan Avenue. I heard rumblings of people mocking my blog, criticizing my body, and generally undercutting things that I’m genuinely proud of. I starting reconsidering why I even had a blog? I’ve been doing it for a solid 5 minutes, so it’s not too late to back out…

Additional background – personally, I was going through a tough time with my family. Without saying too much, losing someone is never easy. Doesn’t matter the age or circumstances. As I’m going through this, I’m letting these words weigh heavier and heavier on my psyche. Until, one day I was reminded of my dear grandmother and her favorite bit of advice to her children, my dad and Aunt. “Consider the source,” she would say discerningly. This post is dedicated to her.

Consider the source translates loosely to the knowledge that people say things because they are internally motivated. Their communication is tainted with their own experiences and desires. In journalism it means something slightly differently, but I’m confident my edited definition is on par with my grandma’s beliefs. Just go with it. Anyways, I started thinking about this and connecting the dots in my life.

These negative people’s whispers say more ABOUT THEM does it about me. They so clearly have things going on in their life that are influencing how they speak about others. Combine the message with the delivery – behind a screen or whispers between friends. Notice that none of these modes of communicated are actually directly to the subject.

Honestly, it’s not worth any more thought than that. If I enjoy creating, their biased opinions shouldn’t mean anything to me. In the future, they’re not going to get a second thought.

Don’t give other’s hateful words power. I encourage you to continue doing what you love! If you’re creating content on the daily – keep doing that. If you’re enjoying your healthy lifestyle – continue on. You deserve support and encouragement!! Like former First Lady, philanthropist, and overall bad ass Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” Consider the source…