As a person who groans at the thought of a meaningless cliché, which is seemingly redundant, I've shifted my philosophy to the folk-wisdom that all humans have available to them. Whereas clichés are a no-no in writing, perhaps not so much in life; maybe they're not as meaningless after all.
There are certain proverbs that contain solid bits of golden wisdom. They are familiar to all of us at some level.
"People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." I can appreciate this one in light of the psychological aspects. Psychologists would call this a typical defense mechanism where one criticizes others for the weaknesses and faults they have themselves. I call it hypocrisy. Some find it difficult to look in the mirror first before tearing down someone else. Or they are quick to 'preach' one thing but turn around and practice just the opposite. Stones can crack and shatter the glass of the 'holier-than-thou' shelter of those who do not honestly appraise their true reflection.
I've been in many places in my life, and many not so great. In fact there were times I had it difficult on a daily level. I grew more ungrateful and even bitter for the circumstances in which I found myself. "The grass is always greener on the other side (of the fence)." The true irony of this is that it should be met with caution...we, as humans, think part of the problem is the "things" we have of don't have and we attach the "problem" as the direct cause of our unhappiness. Research says that appreciating what we have; having a spirit of thankfulness for the little things that are intangible can be a true source of joy, better health and well-being. I've always had riches that I could not buy and that's green enough for me.
There are many more, in fact now that you have an idea what I'm talking about, you could probably name several. However, I'll wrap up with the popular axiom: "Laughter is the best medicine." Think of someone who makes you laugh when they laugh. The laughter physically changes actual biological levels like blood sugar and can even improve a night's sleep. If there was one element that most of the Beavers' family shared was a keen sense of humor. It tied us all together in something that ultimately comforted us in a sense of unity all because we shared laughs. Laughter can be one a close friend. It can help us age and deal with the challenges of life.
Well, I must move on and begin thinking about my blog post for next week, because, you know--"The early bird catches the worm!" Oh, no -wait!! I'm the worm!