Lesson 35: Learn to Forgive

This is a hard one for me, but one which will reduce the stress in your life.  Holding grudges seems to be a lot easier to do.  It gets us attention and helps us to cope with the anger associated with the actions of others that are painful and cruel.

Throughout my life, I have found it difficult to just let go of that anger. I have spent many hours ruminating on the bad stuff, and have lost those hours where I could have been doing something good for myself.  I have also let other's actions affect the feelings and worth I have for myself.

No one has the right to take the happiness you deserve away from you.  No one has the right to make you feel that you are not valued.  But...only YOU hold the key to prevent that.  Use your key...learn to forgive and move on and feel good about yourself and your life. You only get one turn...make it the best it can be.

Lesson 34: Respect the Beliefs of Others

This weekend marks Good Friday, Passover, and Easter.  It is the first time in 40 years that Good Friday and Passover occur on the same date.  As cultures and religious beliefs become integrated and evolve, it is especially important that all of us reach out, learn about, and respect the beliefs of others. We may not always agree on the fundamentals and core beliefs of each religion, but we can and should respect that these comprise the value systems of our friends and neighbors. The differences among us is what makes us interesting to each other. Embrace it!

The lesson today is respect the beliefs of others.

Lesson 33: Age is Just a Number

As I grow older, I look at my peers and realize how very different we look and feel.  When we were young, we all "looked the same".  With stress and genetics, we have changed over the years, and as we are reaching our 6th decade of life, the differences become more apparent.

Some of my peers have not been fortunate enough to celebrate another birthday. Others are hampered with health issues that impair their daily activities. Some have embraced their gray, including me, and some are lucky enough not to have any gray yet, and don't need the help of Clairol.  Some have lots of wrinkles and some only have a few wrinkles, without the help of Botox. Some are bald, and some are sporting a full head of hair.

But even though many of us have changed on the "outside," we are still young at heart.  We enjoy doing fun things and appreciate the art of "play."  So the lesson today is to see beyond the physical shell of another's body, and look within. After all, age is just a number.

Lesson 32: Your Body is Your Temple

Today's lesson is to appreciate your body and to take good care of it. When you were born, your body was at its purest state, protected from the outside environment, and hopefully nourished well by your mother during your fetal development. 

While you did not have control over the food your parents fed you when you are young, it is important to nourish it your body well once you do have a say in your diet.  It is also important to go outdoors and soak in some sun for Vitamin D, and it is just as important to protect your skin when you are there. Exercising your body to keep it supple and mobile is critical to live a quality life as you age. 

Reduce the stress in your life. Even if you are physically doing all the right things, stress can take a toll on your physical well-being. Find things to do that make you feel happy and fulfill your personal dreams and goals.

Remember, your body is your temple. Honor it.

Lesson 31: The Cat's in the Cradle



Harry Chapin said it best in his famous song "The Cat's in the Cradle," when he said "I'd like to Dad, if I had the time, but the new job's a hassle and the kids have the flu..blah blah blah." 

Take the time to read the lyrics at http://www.lyricsdepot.com/harry-chapin/cats-in-the-cradle.html.
Analyze your life against the song's message.  Are you taking the time to appreciate what is really important in life?  As parents, we have done the best we can with what we have (had), but it is true that very unimportant things get in the way of what is really important.  The sad part is that we did not know that at the time.  Aging really does make you a lot smarter about life's lessons, and anyway, we never would have believed these things when we were younger and "knew it all."

So the lesson this week is to take the time to consider what is really important in life, and lead your life in that direction.  It is never too late.  At that point, you can say you understand and are reaching for self-actualization.

Lesson 30: Reality

Saw this on a sign today and felt it was worth repeating:

Someone will always be prettier.
Someone will always be smarter.
Someone will always be younger.
But they never will be me.

Lesson 29: Much to Be Thankful For

As the American holiday season starts tomorrow, it is time to reflect on which to be thankful for. Although the economy is bleak, the world appears to be at war, and the continued threat of terrorism looms, we cannot lose sight of what is most important - our families, our friends, our pets, and the support of our local communities.

And why?

The economy has been historically labile...swinging like a pendulum based on man-made decisions as well as natural events. There is not much you can do, but be fiscally responsible for you and your family. Do not spend more money than you have. Work to live - put away as much as you can each pay period to save for retirement, and a little more for a rainy day.  Plan your vacations wisely - if going abroad, chose a location where your money is worth more than in your own country. If you travel nationwide, take advantage of the discounts and deals found through the Internet. Look at package options. There is so much there for so little.

Throughout history, the world has always been at war - somewhere.  It may seem worse, but, in reality, media and technology have enabled us to be more informed. In addition, the fear of terrorism is a reality. Yet, you can't stop living your life for a "what if" scenario.  

Instead of focusing on the big picture, take a snapshot of your small world.  Be grateful for good health, the love that surrounds you, the kindness shared by others, the guidance of those who mentor, and the beauty in the nature around you.

On this Thanksgiving, I have much to be thankful for...good health (I'm a three year Breast Cancer Survivor), a beautiful and loving family, my precious pet companions, and my dearest friends, you know who you are.