Best Quote Ever

For many years now, I have kept a quote book. I don't actively seek out quotes, but when I stumble upon one - in a newspaper article, in a book I'm reading, in a magazine or on the net - I make a note of if in my book. Then when I am feeling vulnerable, or low, or in need of guidance, or a boost of confidence, I browse through my book. And inevitably, something speaks to me. Whether it is some wise words about parenting, or some insights about relationships, or a fabulous quote about anxiety, I can always find exactly what I need to get me through that particular moment in my life.

At least, until the next crisis.

This has been a tough year. My husband and I separated, I moved houses, I tried very hard to push forward in my career. It's been a time of great change, some enormous challenges, and some great triumphs. Good and bad. Ups and downs. Happys and Sads. And enormous uncertainty.

I hate uncertainty. It is very difficult for someone like me. I like to know exactly what is ahead. What will my life look like in six months? A year? What about in five years? Ten years? When I'm a hundred?

And so this is the quote that is getting me through at the moment. It's from the Tao de Ching, and though I am far from being a Taoist (or even remotely spiritual in any way) these words resonate deeply with me.

I hope they resonate with you, too.

Don't seek and don't expect.
Be patient and wait until your mud settles and your water is clear.
Be patient and wait.
Your mud will settle.
Your water will be clear.

What's your favourite quote at the moment?