“Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.” ~ The Dude

This year for my birthday, I only wanted a few things: to do a little shopping, order from my favorite restaurant, and cuddle up to watch “The Big Lebowski.”

The Dude truly has wisdom. Below are some of my favorite quotes:

1. “This aggression will not stand, man.”

No, it will not! It feels so good to speak up and know what we deserve, doesn’t it? This especially hits home for anyone who is an abuse survivor and may have felt controlled or silenced. If something is off, it’s okay to speak up for yourself.

2. “Oh, you know, strikes and gutters, ups and downs.”

Life truly is a series of ebbs and flows. It’s important to not get too hard on ourselves when things get challenging. It’s okay to take a break and regroup.

3. “I can’t be worrying about that sh*t. Life goes on, man.”

Enough said. Let that sh*t go! I know it’s easier said than done, but it does help in the healing. Eventually, everything works itself out. Keep surrendering and looking for what’s working.

4. “The Dude abides.”

This one just straight up cracks me up. Maybe it’s the way Jeff Bridges says it. Or how simple it is. I don’t know. I just feel like it shows how easygoing The Dude is—I like that. I strive to be more like that.

5. “Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.”

This quote reminds us that everyone is coming from their own perspective. Remember to take people’s opinions with a grain of salt—especially if the energy around them is negative or condescending to your truth. Believe in yourself, your knowledge of your own life, and your ability to pave your own way. And, whatever man. What do they know anyway, right (winky face)?

~