Virginia Satir

Problems are not the problem; coping is the problem.

Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible - the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family.

We must not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us.

Life is not what it's supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.

Adolescents are not monsters. They are just people trying to learn how to make it among the adults in the world, who are probably not so sure themselves.

So much is asked of parents, and so little is given.

Every word, facial expression, gesture, or action on the part of a parent gives the child some message about self-worth. It is sad that so many parents don't realize what messages they are sending.

What lingers from the parent's individual past, unresolved or incomplete, often becomes part of her or his irrational parenting.

We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.

We can learn something new anytime we believe we can.