When I Started My Quote Collection

When I was in my early twenties, I borrowed a book from a friend called “Live, Learn, and Pass it On”. This book was comprised of people saying what they have learned at various ages. This went from things like, “I’ve learned that red lollipops are the best”, age 5 to, “I’ve learned to keep my promises no matter what”, age 35.

If you can’t already tell, I am a bit of a "quote nerd." This book was the start of my quote notebook. I took all of the quotes that hit me in some way, categorized them (I know, I know, lol), and made my own notebook. 

There was a day not too long after I made this notebook where I was faced with a decision. I had an opportunity to do something fun with my family, but it would have meant going back on my word for a previous work commitment I made. 

I kept getting advice to do the fun thing with my family, but that did not feel right to me. Even though I knew spending time with my family would be a special opportunity, I had already made a promise. Keeping my word has always been a character trait I've been proud of. My gut was in knots all night. 

That is when I thought to open my quote book and see if something hit me. The above quote is the quote I first read. At that point, I knew my decision and my gut immediately stopped hurting. I knew people may be relying on me to fulfill my role, and if so, I could not go back on my word.

The next day, I went and spoke with my supervisor. Before I even got out the full story, she said for me to go with my family. I made it clear that if she needed me, I would absolutely be there. She said they would be covered, and she believed in the importance of being with family.

I was able to go with a clear conscience and not feel like I went against my word and commitment if I was needed. I went and had a great ski trip with people I love! 

There is also a message in here about finding the balance of keeping your word while assessing the current circumstances to take care of both your responsibilities and your well-being.