Thanks for the quick reply. I'll definitely try to avoid the "iffin" in the future, and focus more on the understanding part....which for me is usually the last step in the process of a large failure.

I also really liked that quote... im surprised you say this person never contributed much because those words of wisdom seem like the words of someone who is very encouraging. If only we didn't endure the pain in silence as so many do, and find solace in others. Lets play the blame game and say no one is patient enough to help with life's most difficult trials, thus it falls back to ourselves.

Its a funny thing about that person - he was my father.  He died way too young (62) and I didn't gain as much as I would have liked of his innate wisdom.  My mother was domineering and he didn't have a strong place in our household.  But some of the things I learned, like this encouragement he gave, was extremely helpful to my growth.  I did not want to diminish him but honor him really by remembering what he taught me.

Personal responsibility will always be the key to a well lived life.  We take responsibility for self and allow others the same.  When we stop blaming others we find the value in the lessons of life.

very true! and your father was indeed a wise man.