Don't blow out a candle before you light it.
M.L. Bull
Being a writer has its pros and cons.
M.L. Bull
Writing isn't a hobby to me. It's a big part of who I am. If I don't write, I don't feel normal.
M.L. Bull
I write for others, but I'm my biggest fan.
M.L. Bull
There are some advantages to not publishing.
M.L. Bull
I write what my characters say and how they feel based on their different jobs, personalities, experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I write what makes them laugh and what makes them cry; what they fear and what they love. It's not all sweet, and it's not all salty. It's realistic fiction . . . it's life.
M.L. Bull
Let the story do the talking.
M.L. Bull
The best and oldest book ever written was the Bible. It was here before there was ink and paper.
M.L. Bull
When you write the harsh truth and reality of life, you may shed a few tears, or you may feel alone like nobody really cares, but write it anyway. God is on your side.
M.L. Bull
Some writers are valued while they are living. Others are valued long after they're dead.
M.L. Bull
Some stories entertain readers, and others inspire change. I don't know if mine will do both or neither, but I shall write as many as I can.
M.L. Bull
For love, she had surrendered her dignity, her quality time with family, and her freedom of independence. She hadn’t looked at her situation as a serious domestic problem, but as she disassembled her engaged relationship, it all made sense to her now.
She was an abused woman.
M.L. Bull
When he opened his eyes, beads of droplets were on the lens of his eyeglasses. He took off his glasses, wiped them with the hem of his button-down, short-sleeve shirt, and slipped them on again. It being only a week since her passing, the heartache of losing his wife was still there. For months he watched her long tiresome battle with cancer, staying beside her hospital bed for hours on end. He felt her pain of needle injections and the shame of her chemo stealing her hair.
M.L. Bull
No matter how it's done, everything you learn can be applied to the craft of writing stories.
M.L. Bull
Those of you protesting for the good cause of justice and equality, y'all have my respect and support. But all of you whether black or white who are burning down buildings and cars, stealing goods, and acting like fools...GO HOME!!!
Stop acting up to be seen on camera! Jump off the bandwagon of foolery and get aboard the train of dignity and civility. You're not helping the objective of the "true" protesters, you are contaminating their positive effects.
M.L. Bull
And so she wrote while others thought she did nothing.
M.L. Bull
When I write, I feel as though I'm chiseling at stone, building a sculpture.
M.L. Bull
I pray about my writing and for God to help me through the process of my stories. But, why not? He is the author of the best and oldest book ever written, planned in his mind even before there was ink and paper. The Bible.
M.L. Bull
One of the great opportunities of being a writer is being a voice for the voiceless.
M.L. Bull
A caterpillar doesn't become a butterfly in one day. No more does a writer become a published author in one draft. Change is a gradual process, but it's better to start somewhere than nowhere.
M.L. Bull
“Are we just here for coffee?†Ben said finally, breaking the silence.
Hector snapped out of his muse and turned his eyes to the old man. “Oh, no, sir. I wanted to talk with you about something . . . or rather someone?â€
“And?†Ben raised his eyebrow and inclined his head.
“And . . .†Hector replied in hesitation. He blinked faintly and let out a long breath. “Uh . . . I uh . . . wanted to talk to you about your daughter.â€
“Which one?†Ben joked. “I’ve got five of them.â€
M.L. Bull
You can't expect a cow to meow.
M.L. Bull
My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.
Psalm 45:1
Some people you genuinely like, but they have a certain side to them they're oblivious of which places you in an awkward predicament where you don't know whether to stick around or run away from them.
M.L. Bull
Choose your friends wisely. People change like the seasons.
M.L. Bull
How you treat God now is how He'll treat you later. If you deny Him now, He'll deny you later. If you reject him now, He'll reject you later. If you ignore Him now, He'll ignore you later. If you curse Him now, He'll curse you later. If you acknowledge Him now, He'll acknowledge you later. If you bless Him now, He'll bless you later.
M.L. Bull
The problem with holding your peace after moving on is how others perceive your indifference.
M.L. Bull
Honestly, half the time I don't know how to start a chapter, but somehow something comes together like a jigsaw puzzle.
M.L. Bull
The book almost everyone is scared of reading.
M.L. Bull
Fear not your own shadow. Behind every eclipse there is light of hope.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes you will be too good for some people, and they don't know how to handle you. Sometimes you want to help and don't know if you can take it yourself. But that's life.
M.L. Bull
Reality is never easy for anyone, but it's better than living in a lie and being caught off guard.
M.L. Bull
Anytime someone or something makes your mind feel like a tossing boat, it's time to jump ship.
M.L. Bull
Do something different for a change and don't always think about yourself. God made the world for more than one being.
M.L. Bull
Make wise choices. Whatever you do today can determine your tomorrow.
M.L. Bull
The hardest goodbyes are to those who refuse to leave.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes one can be so used to being on the top that they forget what it feels like to be at the bottom. But life has a way of changing circumstances.
M.L. Bull
Many of the best writers are quiet, unnoticed people.
M.L. Bull
A Word of Wisdom
with M.L. Bull
Under certain conditions, depending on the situation sometimes it's okay to back away and give up.
M.L. Bull
"A Friend Lost in Time"
M.L. Bull
When you know that you know, you don't have to say anything.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes it's better to take the blame than to explain. What can you do with a person who doesn't tell the truth?
M.L. Bull
Before you complain about someone else's conduct toward you, examine yourself. There could be a reason for it.
M.L. Bull
There is being concerned for a good cause, and there is being nosy for a hidden agenda. Which one are you implementing?
M.L. Bull
It's a crying shame, but sometimes you're a better friend to someone than they are to you. For some, you're nothing more than something to use, a source of supply for their own benefit.
M.L. Bull
You are not someone else's cutout. Just because you may look to other people for help or advice doesn't mean they are entitled to your privacy or life.
M.L. Bull
Two of the main types of people I cannot tolerate is a liar and a gossiper. A liar makes lies, and a gossiper spreads them.
M.L. Bull
Whenever a bad thing happens as a result of something you did, don't rehearse it. Instead, take it for a life lesson not to make that choice, go this route, or do that thing again.
M.L. Bull
Guard your heart and be careful who you allow to unlock it. He who holds the key can enter and destroy.
M.L. Bull
People are as unpredictable as the weather, having different thoughts, behaviors, personalities, and feelings. Save yourself the heartache and don't get too close to anyone.
M.L. Bull
Before you get an applause, be the audience of your pursuits and dreams. A life spent waiting is a life spent wanting.
M.L. Bull
Just because you see someone's footprints doesn't mean they're still there. While you trace their trail before you, they could already be miles away.
M.L. Bull
Is it really worth it?
M.L. Bull
Someone else's problem doesn't have to become your problem. If you can't handle a person or situation, learn to walk away for your own mental well-being.
M.L. Bull
Money does not define one's character.
M.L. Bull
Isaiah’s eyes went round, staring at the paper. After discovering the man didn’t have insurance, the only thing that came to his mind was one word. Scammer.
He massaged his brow and chuckled at the ridiculous amounts. “You’re requesting for an eighty percent down payment? If that isn’t steep, my name’s Charlie Brown.â€
M.L. Bull
If you don't know the whole story of someone or a situation, don't make a conclusion based on the words of another. If you can, find out the truth for yourself.
M.L. Bull
Social media doesn't always define who you are. Don't worry what negative things strangers say about you online. You don't know these people and they don't know you.
M.L. Bull
A friend who always has to have you beneath them is a friend you don't need them.
M.L. Bull
Love whether for a romantic partner or just a friend is not about what only YOU can get out of it. Many people want love, but when it comes to turning the tables, they don't want to act from the other end. They just always want to be the one with their arms open, but never the one giving the hug. They want to be the one getting sympathy, but not the one showing empathy. They want to be waited upon, but never the one having patience and doing the waiting. They want to be heard, but never the one truly listening.
M.L. Bull
One who loves tells the truth, even if it hurts.
M.L. Bull
Emotional intelligence is just as important as mental intelligence. If you don't know who you are or how you feel, then you won't be able to relate to other people's feelings either.
M.L. Bull
Do you want to help me because you truly care as a friend, or just to boost your own ego? As an INFJ, I can tell the difference between people.
M.L. Bull
God is the essence of living. Without him, you don't have a life.
M.L. Bull
All I'm saying is, just be honest. Don't lie to boost your ego or portray somebody that you're not because of fear of what others will think about you. As an INFJ, I can respect and maybe give someone a second chance who's honest about themselves, shortcomings, struggles, ailments, or whatever they've done. We've all got problems anyway. Unfortunately, being honest is asking too much for most, which makes it harder to trust people.
M.L. Bull
Your are not a bad person if you feel the need to protect your thoughts and emotions from someone. People have different emotional capacities and everyone doesn't have the ability to be honest about themselves to others, have your best interest at heart, or will look out for your well-being. Therefore, you have to look out for yourself. It's not that you're selfish or unloving toward other people..."
M.L. Bull
It would solve and eliminate a lot of problems if more people were honest in who they really are. What kind of person are you? Do you feel the need to hide your true self? What makes you tick? How high is your self-esteem? Do have any physical or mental conditions you're ashamed of that affect how you function each day? If so, what can others do to understand you better? etc.
M.L. Bull
The truth doesn't help you if you don't want to change.
M.L. Bull
Being kind is free of charge. Say hello, smile and wave, lend a friend a helping hand, or simply ask, "How are you doing?"
M.L. Bull
Jealousy, insecurity, and manipulation are three sinkholes that collapse the bridge of friendship. They will never hold it up.
M.L. Bull
God has all the answers to your questions, if you're willing to hear him.
M.L. Bull
If something tragic happened in your past life, don't let it control or define you. Rise above the dirt and ashes. You are a diamond in the rough. Let God polish your heart to perfection.
M.L. Bull
The only problems with changing for the better is fear of the unknown and having to give up one's old ways.
M.L. Bull
Trying to outrun your fears is like running on a treadmill. You stay in the same spot and never get anywhere. How can anyone help you, if you don't even admit you have a problem? To get help you must first acknowledge you need it, otherwise you'll be running on the machine forever.
M.L. Bull
Silence is the best response to irrelevance.
M.L. Bull
Learn to uplift yourself. Don't always rely on someone to raise your self-esteem or make your feel good within. Be humble, but confidence and believe in yourself, your smarts, and your abilities. What happens if that person gets sick or dies? You won't know how to survive.
M.L. Bull
Never place the power of your self-worth in the hands of another person. Your value isn't based on the thoughts, words, or feelings of someone else, not even your parents. You are loved by God and determine your own worth. No one can take your dignity, but you.
M.L. Bull
Give yourself a break. It is hard to show love, if you weren't given it.
M.L. Bull
When one hears the Truth of God, it's not like hearing anything else and you're never the same person again. Because what you heard will always be in the back of your mind, even if you try to live your normal life. But overall it's a good thing and God's way of showing mercy toward you, giving you the know-how to be right and a chance to get ready before the great day of His return.
M.L. Bull
Just because you want to be a great writer doesn't mean you have to be obsessed over it. You can be a successful writer and have a decent, happy life outside of the craft at the same time.
M.L. Bull
Be practical. Your writing isn't for everyone.
M.L. Bull
If there is anyone I could inspire and have a positive influence on with my writing to change their lives, I'd want it to be my family. I might not never create a good impact with my books on anyone else not related to me, but at least let my family better themselves.
M.L. Bull
One's perception of you doesn't always determine who you are.
M.L. Bull
Happy New Year!
M.L. Bull
A new year fulfills hopes and grants surprises.
M.L. Bull
I don't write to scare anyone, though it is scary sometimes. I write what I believe in, what I've been taught, and what I know to be true. I write the truth, to get people to think and consider what they never thought to consider and inspire them to have faith. Truth does so many things. It brings to light and hurts, but it also heals and sets free. A bittersweet recipe.
M.L. Bull
Friendship, admiration of someone, and fear of being alone aren't good reasons to strive and live for God. It has to be personal. If it's not personal, you won't endure and will give up the minute the first pain comes your way. Or if whoever you're close with quits, you will follow him or her on the sideline. Salvation is a marathon of runners, and only the determined and devoted will win the race.
M.L. Bull
Life is filled with tests and challenges. If you can't endure the small ones, you won't be equipped to handle the large ones. Change your mindset. Pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Accept differences. Mend hearts and move on.
M.L. Bull
Educate to elevate, not to deflate.
M.L. Bull
Insecurity and fear create a toxic chemical reaction called Jealousy.
M.L. Bull
The greater the struggle, the greater the victory.
M.L. Bull
It's hard for someone to understand what you're saying when they take practically everything in life from one perspective. They have a one-track mind and cannot see the broader picture of things.
M.L. Bull
Don't bother explaining what one doesn't understand. Save your breath.
M.L. Bull
Don't use your disorder or condition as an excuse for others to pity you. Learn to adapt to changes and build healthier relationships with people.
M.L. Bull
Being a loner isn't always bad. At least, you don't have to worry about someone getting jealous of you meeting another person.
M.L. Bull
In order for anyone to see and understand your perspective, they have to stop always looking at everything from theirs.
M.L. Bull
Closeness to someone can be good or bad; it can sprout flowers of friendship, trust, and compassion, or can it overgrow vines of jealousy, fear, and possession. Don't let kindness toward you become a weed. Allow your relationships with other people to grow and sprout out; don't over tend them.
M.L. Bull
Don't be afraid of losing materialistic things. Everything temporal can be replaced.
M.L. Bull
The greatest gifts you can give yourself are love and respect, because then and only then you can show it to others.
M.L. Bull
You can't always run, hide, or take the easy way out. Many times, you have to turn around and walk uphill.
M.L. Bull
There's a big difference between being alone and being lonely. And the one thing I ain't is lonely.
Ja'Net Dubois as Willona Woods, Good Times (1974-1980)
If you're a person who has a mental disorder or condition that affects your behavior and there's someone who is a good friend and supports you, even though you do nothing to emotionally support them, you really should cherish that person. They don't have to stay.
M.L. Bull
When someone wants to try to arouse a reaction out of you, be a horse with blinders.
M.L. Bull
I kept my guard up for a reason. Thanks, for reminding me why.
M.L. Bull
Kindness doesn't always equal friendship.
M.L. Bull
I am a pen in the Lord's hand.
M.L. Bull
Helping others should be out of the kindness of your heart or to do the right thing, not to gain control, significance, or validation.
M.L. Bull
Finding faults in others they perceive as golden is some people's way of fulfilling their need of having control and forming their own sense of significance and validation.
M.L. Bull
If someone still loves you, remains your friend, or just is kind and stays by your side who you've belittled, mocked, abused, manipulated, criticized, disregarded the emotions and situations of, taken for granted, misused, or taken advantage of, they deserve your integrity and respect. They don't have to keep being loyal and stick around. They can leave at any time.
M.L. Bull
A wound cannot heal just slapping a Band-Aid on it. It'll only keep getting infected and never get better. Rather, one must tend to it with care.
M.L. Bull
You can't help everybody, but you can help somebody.
M.L. Bull
Many times we are our own hindrance to becoming a well-rounded, better person.
M.L. Bull
When it's all said and done, there comes a point in your life where you don't know what else to say, except, "I wish you well."
M.L. Bull
Placing too much expectation on yourself can become a bad thing, especially when we're so used to always fulfilling a certain role in our lives or being heavily dependent on it to define who we are. We're used to winning and getting praise for our skills, talents, and achievements. We want to always feel on the top, to the point we can't handle being on the bottom. We lose touch with our reality and find it hard to accept defeat. But we are not our medals or awards. They are only things we are given.
M.L. Bull
Create new tactics. Smile like magic. Be a light and shine bright. Be a star in the dark night.
From the poem "Trust God" by M. L. Bull
M.L. Bull
Genuine kindness and patience are priceless.
M.L. Bull
The answers to our questions often relies within ourselves. The problem is our capacity to be honest about who and what we are. If we reach this milestone, we have the ability to live fulfilling lives.
M.L. Bull
Just because someone tells or mentions something to you about their writing process or techniques doesn't mean you have to follow everything they say. Do what you think is best for your story.
M.L. Bull
I don't want to be anyone's therapist. I've got my own problems to worry about. Whatever quotes I say is to bring awareness or to help someone who's in a state of need.
M.L. Bull
I always try to inspire others not to make myself look good or have control over them, but to motivate, bring awareness, encourage, or help them to build their confident, independence, and their own unique sense of individuality. That's what helping others is all about, creating a continual chain reaction for the betterment of self and others.
M.L. Bull
I don't believe in looking down on others, including those with mental disorders. Even those of us who don't suffer mental breakdowns sometimes.
M.L. Bull
Writers are like fingerprints. They might write about similar things, but they have their own unique style of telling them.
M.L. Bull
Trusting someone who you know lied to you isn't a walk in the park, especially if they've done many negative things to you. It makes you skeptical to the point you don't know what to think of them anymore and hard to believe anything they say.
M.L. Bull
Let other people think what they want. Don't let others control your emotions. If you know you're not something, just forget and ignore it.
M.L. Bull
Even if it's just a grocery list, my hands will write something before the day's over.
M.L. Bull
If you can't write a paragraph, then write a sentence. If you can't write a sentence, then write three words: I got this!
M.L. Bull
God is the ultimate judge. Most people rely and depend more on other people they admire or fancy to give them a sense of validation without asking God how He feels or thinks about things. What He says in his Word matters more than mankind's opinions.
M.L. Bull
One of the troubles with striving to live a holy life is when people look at you as if everything you believe is your personal opinion. No, I'm just standing up for the Truth that was already written because it's right and I want to be saved. If it were up to only me, I wouldn't care what you do.
M.L. Bull
Customary traditions are things that are learned and passed on, but rarely questioned.
M.L. Bull
Keep reading. Keep researching. Keep writing.
M.L. Bull
Regulating one's emotions begins with the mind. However you think is what you'll feel.
M.L. Bull
When one is able to come to terms with reality, life gets a little easier.
M.L. Bull
If your normal life feels uncomfortable and interrupted, something ain't right, and it's likely God showing you mercy by getting your attention. It's not a coincidence.
M.L. Bull
We're not robots. We're living, breathing beings with a heart, soul, and feelings. It's okay to be vulnerable or cry if you need to.
M.L. Bull
Time is precious and constantly moving, so always use it wisely. Every day that goes by is a day you can't gain back.
M.L. Bull
Those who only do for others to gain back have not learned the meaning of love.
M.L. Bull
Whatever you do for someone, let it primarily be out of the goodwill of your heart and not always because you expect something back from that person. Otherwise, keep your "nice" favors to yourself. Stipulations and kindness are like oil and water— they don't mix.
M.L. Bull
Be happy for yourself, even if others aren't happy for you.
M.L. Bull
One cannot give what they have never been given or taught to have themselves.
M.L. Bull
If you can't even say "Thank You" or "You're Welcome" every now and then, you need serious help.
M.L. Bull
You can always strive to be better than how you were treated by someone yourself. One's past is no excuse to remain incompetent about anything.
M.L. Bull
If you're a writer who needs writing inspiration or ideas, watch television. It's loaded with them.
M.L. Bull
Your time and energy are two of your most important sources. Use them on the people and things that make you happiest.
M.L. Bull
"Sometimes people disappoint you, and you just have to let it go and love'em anyway."
M.L. Bull
Better to be a hurricane than a dry desert.
M.L. Bull
Don't handicap yourself or stunt your growth. If you can be better in your life than how and what you are, do better.
M.L. Bull
Whether spiritually or naturally, fear, hate, and disbelief are three of life's most limiting emotions that hold one back from progress, change, and happiness.
M.L. Bull
How parents raise their children is very impactful and important. Whatever bad knowledge they teach them can scar them for life.
M.L. Bull
He wanted to speak again—to call for help, his thoughts and memories slipping away like sand flowing through an hourglass.
Eva's Promise
If it's not you, don't worry about it. It's that simple.
M.L. Bull
I don't have to be like you, and you don't have to be like me. End of story.
M.L. Bull
Children are like houses and plants. They must be well-furnished and nurtured to last and survive. How parents raise them is influential, effective, and very important. Whether it's good or bad, whatever seeds they plant in their minds and hearts will grow and sprout into their adulthood.
M.L. Bull
If someone wise has a word or knows something that can elevate your complete well-being, don't be so quick to judge or criticize it. Wait to get a proper understanding.
M.L. Bull
Find the silver linings in clouds of life's darkest moments. Whatever bad experiences you go through, turn it around and see what good can come from it to sustain your sanity and wellbeing.
M.L. Bull
Life as she knew it would never be the same, and if faced with the worst, she wondered how she could live without Andre’s presence.
M.L. Bull
One of the saddest things is caring about someone and wanting to help them, but not being able to do anything.
M.L. Bull
Who are you? He didn’t recognize her or see many people since he first opened his eyes, but she was the most gorgeous person he’d seen yet, her olive countenance bright and beautiful like the shining sun.
M.L. Bull
Insight is a valuable asset that keeps one from misinterpreting their perception of people and things in the wrong matter. It allows one to think clearly and realize the underlying causes of certain words or actions instead of overreacting about situations one doesn't fully understand.
M.L. Bull
Honesty is a simple thing, but can help resolve a lot of problems and build a sense of understanding for people of why things are the way they are.
M.L. Bull
Fun, games, and laughter can exist with one's adulthood at the same time. One just has to balance them out with maturity, independence, and responsibility. Anyone who thinks they can't coexist hasn't ever been a kid.
M.L. Bull
Be the captain of your own ship. Venture out and sail the seas.
M.L. Bull
Some people are stubborn, too much to handle, and you'll never get through to them. They don't do anything, except hurt you, use you, waste your time, or drain your energy. Just let them be.
M.L. Bull
Peace and best wishes I give unto you,
goodbye, dear friend, I bid you adieu.
M.L. Bull
Now it was as if the pivotal chapters of their friendship never existed. They were strangers who shared a framed certificate nailed on the wall, and in heart-wrenching silence lived in the same house.
M.L. Bull
The pace of the writer is not important. What's important is the quality of the book.
M.L. Bull
One of the most hurtful and damaging experiences is being there, encouraging, and caring about someone who cares nothing about you.
M.L. Bull
Once the damage has been done, it's hard to believe anything nice one might try to do or say.
M.L. Bull
Brokenness takes time to mend and heal, but it's possible. Accept and learn from your past mistakes, failures, or heartbreaks and rearrange the broken pieces into a beautiful mosaic.
M.L. Bull
When you think about and remember eternity, whatever bad, mean, or evil things people strike you with―whether it's something big or small―it helps to soften the blows, knowing God sees everything; and in due time, if they don't ever repent and get themselves together, they will pay the price for it.
M.L. Bull
Every season has its own designated time just as people who strive for goals and aspirations. Be patient, learn, invest, grow, and watch your dreams unfold.
M.L. Bull
I can respect someone who tells the truth about themselves, their deception, or their bad habits not in a manipulative way to make others feel sorry, but just to be honest. I mean, even those of us striving in the Truth of God make mistakes sometimes, but the difference is we work toward overcoming our shortcomings.
If you're not right, set yourself free, just say so, and make the necessary adjustments. At some point, one must look in the mirror, grow up, and take responsibility for their words and actions.
M.L. Bull
If people won't listen to verbal advice, maybe putting it in an interesting story will help them.
M.L. Bull
We are perfect imperfections. It's so freeing just to be honest and say I'm not perfect, I've got some issues, or I've got flaws because then the pressure's off and you can be real with yourself and do something about it instead of pretending you have yourself altogether.
M.L. Bull
We are perfect imperfections created by a perfect God. It's so freeing just to be honest and say I'm not perfect, I've got some issues, or I've got flaws because then the pressure's off and you can be real with yourself and do something about it instead of lying, pretending you're somebody than you're not, and like you have yourself completely altogether.
M.L. Bull
Kindness is a good virtue to have, but even it has its downside for certain people. Sometimes kindness doesn't help because it limits one's self-growth and getting them to see themselves for who they are.
For those who have a sense of entitlement and are used to always getting their way all the time, you have to resort to other methods so as not to accept their behavior. Love isn't always soft and passive, but it's also telling someone the harsh truth to snap out of their make-believe fantasies and face reality.
M.L. Bull
Thank you is one of the most basic, simple two-word phrases, but one that holds a lot of meaning. Whether family or friends, it's amazing how many times so few people say it. Show gratitude for the things in your life and what others do for you by saying, "Thank you." The very things and people you take for granted one day may no longer be there.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes writers are camouflaged creatures. They may write about stories they dislike, things that scare or make them uncomfortable, or subjects and incidents that don't pertain to them, but it simply gets done for the sake of other people, for the sake of their characters.
M.L. Bull
I'm not mad. I'm not sad. I'm just minding my own business.
M.L. Bull
Change comes by choice. It doesn't matter how much you believe in someone. If he or she isn't motivated to improve themselves or doesn't want to, I'm sorry to say you're wasting your time.
M.L. Bull
If you can't be a good friend to yourself, then you can't be one to anyone else.
M.L. Bull
Ask yourself: Would you trust yourself? If your answer is no, then why expect anyone else to trust you?
M.L. Bull
The odds of finding a true friend are next to none, but thank the Lord that God is one.
M.L. Bull
If a friend can stay loyal and trustworthy in your presence and in your absence 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, again and again, they're a true friend. Keep them close. They're rare.
M.L. Bull
Some people's way of having control in their own life is by controlling others.
M.L. Bull
Loving others does not mean you have to keep tolerating anyone's negative behavior that you don't deserve. You can love people from a distance. There is a fine line between love and acceptance, and enabling someone to abuse or mistreat you is not love―it's stupidity.
M.L. Bull
One thing about living in Holiness, you become a target. Just because the Devil knows you're walking in the right direction, he can deliberately make someone hate you or mistreat you without them knowing why themselves. They can treat everyone else fine, but when it comes to you, just because of your faith, it's a different story.
M.L. Bull
When it comes to psychopaths, sociopaths, narcissists, and other people with mental or personality disorders, boundaries are the only way to cope and get along with these people. If they aren't willing to cooperate to create healthier relationships, then it's time to go. Don't put your head on the chopping block.
M.L. Bull
You know you're a true friend when you be one to someone even though it's not really convenient for you.
M.L. Bull
When you're a kind person who suffers bad experiences with people, sometimes it can make you not want to be nice to anyone else because you think, "What does it give you?" But don't let bad apples spoil your bunch. Be good. Stay good. Do good.
M.L. Bull
One may be surprised what will happen if you get to yourself and humbly and sincerely pray to God from the depths of your heart.
M.L. Bull
Everyone's emotional capacity isn't the same for various reasons. Be careful who you invest your comfort, kindness, and emotional support.
M.L. Bull
Real friends care about "you" and how they can benefit you. Fake friends care about "yours" and how you can benefit them.
M.L. Bull
First, prove to yourself that you're changing for the better. Don't worry about anybody else. Others will follow afterward. Change for YOU, be sincere, and fake nothing to earn anyone or anything. If it's not for you, it won't be before long that you'll relapse into the same old habits again.
M.L. Bull
Some people can be unloving, but no one is unlovable.
M.L. Bull
Kindness to all, friendship to few.
African Proverb
You only get one life to live. Don't be afraid to get some fresh air every now and then, explore, try new things, meet people, have fun. The more you experience, the more you know and the wiser you become.
M.L. Bull
You don't have to do or say everything that comes to your mind. There are such things called choices.
M.L. Bull
When you try to help or guide someone in the right direction and they don't want to listen or take heed, they're not hurting you. They're hurting themselves.
M.L. Bull
Some people have lived in a fantasy tale so long that it's become their reality. They don't know who to cope with real people, real emotions, and real situations. So whenever they're faced with something overbearing to them, they take the easy way out and always revert to or stay in their safe, little world.
M.L. Bull
Change takes time. A flower doesn't bloom as soon as you plant the seed. It gradually grows and must be nurtured and mature before it fully develops. Be patient with yourself, but also be willing to learn and improve. The more accustomed you get to something, the easier and more normal it becomes and not so much like a "burden" anymore, especially when it's done from your heart.
M.L. Bull
Self-motivation is the key to true change. If you don't care or just aren't determined to improve yourself for yourself, it doesn't matter what advice anybody else says. Nothing about you will get better. At some point, one has to get tired of their own bad habits and wrong ways. Then you can and will try to make a difference.
M.L. Bull
Be careful how you behave and treat others. Sometimes God allows certain things to happen or not go right in your life to humble you and teach you a lesson that you're not in control as much as you thought.
M.L. Bull
For me, writing is a literary craft, but also a creative experiment. With some of my descriptions, I like to "think out of the box" and make symbolic comparisons of two common things that match or don't usually go together.
M.L. Bull
Losing the fear of vulnerability and being accustomed to being alone gives you freedom and takes power and control away from others because you worry less about what people think of you. Instead, you obtain the mindset of, "Here I am. This is me. Take it or leave it."
M.L. Bull
A fall into a ditch makes you wiser.
Chinese Proverb
Yeah, you're a piece of work. But I am too.
M.L. Bull
"You know, some writers write for money, in hopes of fame, or to entertain and give readers a cool adventure, and there's nothing wrong with that. But I hope to inspire or help someone with the stories, poems, and other things I write. If not, I really don't feel like I've accomplished anything."
M.L. Bull
God doesn't force anyone to serve Him. He gives everyone free will, but he also knows those who will or won't be saved. Though the faith of Holiness is tough, you suffer for Christ's sake, and you don't always have good days, I count it a great privilege to be one of the few chosen and given a chance to escape punishment. Everybody isn't called or chosen, or will find the narrow, strait pathway to eternal peace.
M.L. Bull
If Jesus can heal lunatics and people possessed by evil spirits in the Bible, there isn't a person living who can't recover from their present condition, if they are really sincere, pray earnestly, believe, and want to get better. I just don't believe that.
M.L. Bull
I respect genuine people. Even if what they reveal isn't a pretty sight, at least it's honest and true. We can always make necessary adjustments afterward.
M.L. Bull
Prayer's needed for today,
No time for gossip or foul play,
No time to fret or to dismay,
What others think of me or say.
M.L. Bull
Though we've laughed and been close,
you must not look to me the most,
I am not the ruler of your kingdom,
I am not the shadow of your being,
I am a friend of enemies.
M.L. Bull
Don't be so desperate to thrive that you die. You don't have to have a bad character to be somebody, succeed, or get ahead in life. The world is dark enough as it is. Choose to be the better person and do what's right. Be the light.
M.L. Bull
Compassion is the greatest form of love because it can be shown toward anybody. A spouse, a family member, a co-worker, a friend, a stranger--anyone. Because it can be the most influential and become the most painful, I'm persuaded it should be cautiously given out so as not to offend, get hurt, or be taken for granted.
M.L. Bull
For some people, the only thing that gives you value to them is what you have, but if it wasn't for that, they'd drop you like a hotcake. They don't care about you as being a living, breathing person because to them you're just an asset.
M.L. Bull
A lot of problems and situations could be resolved, but if only one person gets involved, nothing can be solved.
M.L. Bull
Don't put your own pieces to a puzzle when you don't know what the picture looks like. You might be wrong and not actually seeing what you think you're seeing, or hearing what you think you're hearing.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes you have to do what you don't want to do to get where you want to go because there's just no other choice.
M.L. Bull
Some situations, relationships, and friendships are meant to stay broken because only one person is exerting the effort to fix it. But if them being unrepaired brings peace, then it's just better that way.
M.L. Bull
An ugly picture can be erased. It doesn't have to stay the same.
M.L. Bull
When the odds strike against you, keep fighting and don't give up.
M.L. Bull
People don't always need a nice favor or advice, but the simplest things can make all the difference.
M.L. Bull
Your worth doesn't rest on how much you can do for somebody else, and neither does mine.
M.L. Bull
We introverts can think too much at times and put ourselves in a mental trap, but we must remember that sometimes life requires the most human choice and not the most logical choice.
M.L. Bull
Helping people doesn't mean they should always stay dependent on you for everything, but it also doesn't they won't get help from you again either. If you truly mean to help others develop their skills and reach their full potential, then allow them to venture out into endless possibilities, find themselves, and learn new ways of doing things.
M.L. Bull
When it comes to living everyday life, interacting with different people, and finding out the meanings thereof, balance is key. Sort out your choices, thoughts, feelings, and opinions in the scale of decisions to decipher what's right or wrong and level out your mental equilibrium.
M.L. Bull
"Write much, share little."
M.L. Bull
"It takes strength and integrity to treat someone in a kind, empathetic, and thoughtful manner who never treats you the same in return."
M.L. Bull
A person who tries to be a good friend to you or lend a helping hand isn't there to suffer because of your misfortune or for you to take advantage of them. He or she is there to pull you up on your own feet.
M.L. Bull
Where there is an emotional imbalance in friendship, one gets tired of getting the shorter end of the stick.
M.L. Bull
Many times we miss out on golden opportunities because of our unwillingness to sacrifice and we become our biggest hindrance.
M.L. Bull
Sometimes silence hurts more than one's harsh words because it shows that one doesn't care.
M.L. Bull
Life's storms of disappointments can dim your sunshine, but don't stay in the darkness. Smile and let heaven's ray of light be your joy.
M.L. Bull
Why is the hardest question for most people to answer.
M.L. Bull
Stop placing expectations on people who can't deliver them. It only leads to heartache.
M.L. Bull
Let go of the whys and worries in your mind. Forgive yourself for the blunders you made, the regrets you reaped, the things you can't control, and the questions you'll never resolve. Your past is called the past for a reason.
M.L. Bull
There is nothing wrong with enjoying your own company.
M.L. Bull
Remember me with smiles and laughter, for that's the way I'll remember you all. If you can only remember me with tears, then don't remember me at all.
Patricia Neal as Juila Sandersson, Little House on the Prairie (1974-1983)
Just focus on yourself. You don't have to prove anything to anyone else.
M.L. Bull
No matter what protect your space, energy, and mental health. There's no greater person to look out for than yourself.
M.L. Bull
Others might think I'm self destructing, but they don't know I'm quietly building myself up. You can't tell everybody your goals and visions for yourself or what you're doing. But I'll step in the spotlight when I'm ready and not before.
M.L. Bull
I'm just a lover of peace and harmony.
M.L. Bull
If a person refuses to acknowledge their reflection in the mirror of reality, you're resolving nothing by explaining to them their ways.
M.L. Bull
There is a difference between healthy conflict and unhealthy conflict. One leads to a solution, the other causes confusion.
M.L. Bull
Conflict has its place when it's healthy. There is a difference between healthy conflict and unhealthy conflict. One has mutual communication, a fair exchange, and leads to a solution. The other has a one-sided apology, never really resolves anything, and causes confusion.
M.L. Bull