Dear Readers,
In keeping with the tradition of taking inventory of what lessons have been learned during the past year, I would like to offer my year end thoughts:
First: Know that the sun rises every single day even after the darkest night. Decide to be there to watch the sunrise.
Second: Remember that the Creator is benevolent. Look to this day for all the gifts brought to you that are seldom acknowledged. An exquisite flower, a crisp breeze, a star twinkling in the midnight blue sky, the scent of a pine tree, a purring senior cat, a bonfire to gather around, fresh sheets and pillowcases, water to refresh, and the ability to look and appreciate all the extraordinary beauty the world has to offer.
Third: Be in the moment. Stay in the moment, moment by moment. The present is all we have. Longing for the past and worrying about the future are fruitless endeavors.
Fourth: Cherish hellos and goodbyes. Neither is long enough, so make the most of each one.
Fifth: Welcome change even if it’s an uninvited guest. Know that you could be entertaining “angels” unaware. Change is the one constant. Make friends with it.
Sixth: Embrace the real you. There is no one else like you in the Universe. You are truly one of a kind and put here for a higher purpose.
Seventh: Learn to love the mundane task. By polishing your skills through repetition, repetition, repetition you will shine with the stars.
Eighth: Allow others to speak and you simply listen. Good exercise in self-control and personal development.
Nine: Accept the inevitable because it always is.
Ten: Express gratitude daily for the acquaintances, friends, and loved ones the Universe has gifted you with in your life. These are your true priceless treasures.
Eleven: Memorize the following statement: Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things are changing. God alone is changeless. Patience attains the good. –St. Teresa of Avila
And, a good thought to follow every day by Henry Drummond states:
I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore, that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not deter or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.
Be Your Very Best Always,
Judy Williamson
Director of the Napoleon Hill World Learning Center at Purdue University Calumet
FOOTNOTE 4 