For our online group we were challenged with nonsensical words. You know, those words that are made up yet have become part of our vocabulary. The first source I thought about for the very best nonsensical words was Dr Seuss. He invented the best words – Grinch, Lorax, Yekko. He even invented the word NERD in 1950, for the book If I Ran The Zoo. He invented sixty-five words in all, some of which have become part of our language…because let’s face it, everyone knows what a Grinch is! I actually created another version of this, added too much and it got overworked…rats! So I went back to basics and wrote the nonsensical words to the far left, then this quote in both light blue and darker blue:
Be Who You Are And Say What You Feel;
– Dr Seuss 1991
Because Those Who Mind Don’t Matter,
And Those Who Matter Don’t Mind.
I thought his words were a fitting tribute for HIS WORDS! He made a living bringing important ideas to life by making up words and illustrations that only he could have produced. He reminds us that there are really two kinds of people in this world, those who matter and those who mind and don’t matter. And the good news is we get to choose who falls where.
I have utilized this quote many times in leadership development programs, self awareness seminars, and even when speaking with people about their lives. Everyone gets a kick out of a wisely implemented Dr Seuss quote. And, they get the point quickly. So I have to give credit to Theodore Geisel for always being himself and creating a plethora of nonsensical words that have helped us express ourselves and identify those who matter in our lives.
So today, let me encourage you to be yourself, say what you feel and pay attention so YOU can identify those who really matter in your life. Let’s face it, opinions are like belly buttons, everyone’s got one and too many people feel free to share theirs at any opportunity. YOU choose who has the power to speak in your life…and leave those Grinches behind!
Ann Art Gallery Blog 