Our monthly blog feature from MSP President, Dr. Diane Blau, discussing what’s on her mind and in her heart regarding MSP and the field of professional psychology.
I am only one,
But still I am one.
I cannot do everything
Yet I can do something;
And because I cannot do everything
I will not refuse to do the something I can do.
Edward Everett Hale (1822-1909)
This has been my favorite poem for as long as I can remember. It instills a sense of purpose and promise. I am free from the fantasy of thinking I must do or be everything, and moved to do what is most unique to me-what I can do. It celebrates our distinctiveness while impelling us to contribute to the well being of those in our world.
Nevertheless, I can also set limits on what is reasonable and possible for me to do, or how I choose to respond at a particular point in time. There may be moments when I am exceedingly accessible and other periods when circumstances are such that I turn inward and am less available. This is true for most of us as we navigate the exigencies of life.
These words generate an optimistic attitude that has motivated me to be persistent and strive to surmount obstacles. In the most challenging situations, I have often found that there is another way, sometimes an avenue just beyond my awareness that ultimately becomes visible. It behooves us to embrace the “trust the process” paradigm just as we notice how morning light unveils nature’s beauty.
As you make your imprint on life, what is the something you can do?
- In the quest of self care
- In the context of your personal life as you relate with those you love and befriend
- As a professional, whether student or practitioner
- While navigating each day’s pursuits
- As a member of your community, county, state and country
- In service toward the greater good
I wish you well as you take each step on your own exceptional journey-doing the something YOU can do.
