There’s a story about an old man sitting on his front porch in a rocking chair. His best friend comes to visit, and they relax and chat. Nearby, the old man’s dog is sitting and crying out in pain. The visitor asks why the dog is howling since he seems to be in agony.
The old man responds, “My dog is sitting on a nail.”
“Then why doesn’t he move?” asks the visitor, perplexed.
The old man replies, “Oh, that nail just isn’t hurting him enough for him to move!”
I remember the first time I heard this story. I was attending a NeoLife Summit, which used to be called a “convention.” I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these events over the years. They are special not just for the celebratory atmosphere but also for the valuable lessons learned.
The metaphor in the story about the “howling dog” shook me to the core. It was clear that I was (and, to some extent, still am) the dog—making excuses, complaining, and not taking action to change my situation. However, I am not a quitter, and I know that complaining gets us nowhere!
I end this blog with a deep sense of gratitude and expectation. This lovely new website is pushing me to move off the nail. You are welcome to join me on this amazing NeoLife journey ahead.
If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.
– Maya Angelou