As is our practice, once a month at Steven James we ask some of our staff to chime in on a subject or list one of their favorites on any given topic. This month we inquired about any particular sayings or words of wisdom that hold a special place in the minds and hearts of our team members.
Brianna, Social & Branding Strategist: A quote that I like to remind myself of when I'm stressed out is from ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu: "If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present." This reminds me to take things one step at a time and that there is no use in anticipating the worst when you can make the best of what's happening right in front of you.
Nate,Video Production Manager: I'm a longtime fan of Tolkien, so: "It is not our part to master all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us for the succor of those years wherein we are set, uprooting the evil in the fields that we know, so that those who live after may have clean earth to till. What weather they shall have is not ours to rule." -Gandalf, The Return of the KingIt's important to remember at once 1) our responsibility to be good stewards of what we have, and yet 2) that we are limited in power and purview. The need to be both bold and humble is the great challenge of life and the fact that a wizard here admits it makes it, perhaps, even more impactful. Katie,Senior Web Developer: This one is easy: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." (The Bible - James 1:19). By nature, I wouldn't call myself a patient person, and so I remind myself of these words daily. Being a good listener, who thinks before she speaks & doesn't anger easily, is something that serves me well in all areas of life. I'd like to think that keeping these words in my heart has helped me learn to be a kinder, more patient coworker, friend, and family member!
Hayley, Social Media Specialist: My favorite words of wisdom have remained the same since I made them my senior quote in high school. It sounds funny to say but I got them from a fortune cookie. "Failure is the virtual way to prepare us for great responsibilities." I am not sure why these words stuck with me but no matter how many years go by I never forget them.
Jim, Managing Partner: Hebrews 11:1 – “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” What this scripture says to me is that some people put their faith in material things – possessions – or what they view to be lucky objects like a rabbit’s foot. But faith involves belief in things that can’t be necessarily seen or touched. Yet faith is more enduring than anything material. My faith is not grounded in hope. I don’t hope God can heal. I know it. I don’t hope God will take care of things. I know it.
Paul, Content Developer: For many years, I’ve appreciated (but haven’t lived up to) the words of the U.S. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt: “Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.” This reminds me that we all have the gift of being who we are and expressing our individuality (the right), but also that it goes beyond the fun of letting our personal freedom flag fly. It is an obligation, too, to be an independent spirit and free-thinker in a conformist world that often marginalizes or ostracizes those who don't fit in with the accepted society of any given era. This obligation is to ourselves and to support others who may be struggling to do so.
Jeremy,Video Production Specialist: Here are good words of wisdom: "Good, fast, or cheap; pick any two." That statement probably sums up the foundation of the free- enterprise system as much as any ever uttered!There you have it: some words of wisdom to contemplate as we enter the autumn. If you have words, ideas, or a message that needs to be expressed for your business or organization, contact Steven James! Whether it's video, writing, graphics, audio, a website or any other form of content, we'll have some wise words of guidance for you!
