"Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself."
~ Rumi
I love this quote by Rumi because it speaks so deeply to a desire I’ve carried for as long as I can remember—the desire to make a positive difference in the world.
Maybe you can relate to that feeling. The problems in the world are big and overwhelming. Whether it’s global issues like human suffering or closer-to-home challenges like strained relationships, it’s easy to feel both a strong pull to make a difference and a deep sense of helplessness.
I’ve often found myself asking, “How can I possibly make a dent in all of this?” Many days it feels like I can barely manage my own problems, let alone fix the world’s.
But here’s where Rumi’s wisdom comes in. His words remind us to focus on what’s within our control and let go of what isn’t. And this is exactly why I write this blog—not because I have all the answers or because I can single-handedly change the world, but because I want to make a positive difference in your life.
My hope is that my words might help you in your healing journey, your emotional and physical wellness, and your personal growth.
Are You in Control?
Rumi’s words draw a clear line between cleverness and wisdom. Cleverness tries to take on the impossible—changing everything outside of us. Wisdom, however, knows that the only thing we truly have control over is ourselves.
It’s an empowering and humbling realization. Think about it:
What’s in our control?
Our thoughts, our actions, our beliefs, our words, our decisions, and how we respond to the world around us.What’s not in our control?
Other people’s thoughts, actions, beliefs, or opinions. The circumstances we find ourselves in, or the events that unfold around us.
We can’t always choose what happens to us, but we can always choose how we respond. That’s where our real power lies.
From Clever to Wise
Being wise doesn’t mean we stop caring about the world or give up on making a difference. It means we recognize that lasting change begins within.
Some ideas to consider:
Examine your thoughts. Are they helping or harming you? Replace self-criticism with self-compassion.
Choose your actions intentionally. Are you acting from a place of love, kindness, and integrity?
Let go of what you can’t control. Free yourself from the weight of trying to change others or fix everything around you.
Commit to growth. Read, learn, reflect, and make changes that align with the person you want to become.
When we focus on healing and improving ourselves, we create a ripple effect that touches everyone around us.
So today, consider this: What small change can you make within yourself that could positively impact your world?
Remember, you don’t have to do it all. Start with you.
With all my heart,
So well said, again. Thanks 😊