The phrase “Never place a period where God has placed a comma.” is attributed to Gracie Allen, an American comedian, actress & wife of side-kick George Burns. I like to remember this expression because so-called endings can initially feel final and unchangeable: We forget that as long as we’re alive, there is still room for continuation, growth, or change if we want it. The short little phrase (about a . & a , ) is a quick reminder of the possibilities and opportunities Life offers…if we’re open to believing, seeing and/or accepting them. 

We can apply this quote in our lives a variety of ways like: 

  • If we can be open to change instead of seeing any situation as final, maybe we can see the change as a doorway  to new opportunities for growth and learning. 
  • When stuck in the funk of believing something is permanently over — it’s helpful to flip it and remember that nothing is permanent and change is always possible.
  • Embracing the possibility of new possibilities. This could be by choosing to not limit ourselves by thinking that certain things are impossible or out of reach. Keep an open mind!
  • Have faith. Trust that while we think we’ve hit the end with a definitive “period” — what might happen if we accepted we merely hit a “comma” or a “pause” and that things will work out in the end, even if the path forward is not immediately clear or not the one we think we might have preferred. Believe that there is a bigger plan at work. 
  • Don’t rush to conclusions or make decisions based on limited information. Hasty decisions — unless in the midst of an emergency — are often not our best. Take time to consider all options and weigh the pros and cons.

When I stop and apply this quote to my daily life, I usually remember how beneficial the pauses in my life have been, even when I didn’t recognize it at the time.

I’m @DianGriesel aka @SilverDisobedience ✨ A Perception Analyst who shares my Daily Meditations for other Ageless, Passionate & Curious People.  More info in my bio & my website.