Sunday, August 31, 2008

Back to Reality


Since I am not a serious TV fan, I have so far avoided "reality television," but I recently returned to earth from a pleasant but busy vacation -- the first in at least six years. During that time, I saw my daughter off to college, turned 65, and made at least a couple of life-changing decisions.
The life-changing decisions, like life itself, will come to pass in their own good time, but you could count the time on one hand, if you are keeping track.
Meanwhile, I want to hold on to what's left of that vacation mood as long as possible. I made a wish, blew out the candle, and have already started making these things happen. I hope you have something like that going too.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

The Journey So Far


Life is a journey, not a destination, according to many people who have gone this route before. I agree, because there are plenty of things to be learned, and the process of discovery is always a kick, no matter where we are. I know that ultimately, we alone are responsible for what happens, but it is nice to share the trip with someone, and I've finally found my traveling companion. She is the lady who agrees that we shouldn't be afraid to take risks and to not race through life so fast that I forget where I've been or where I'm going.
So the approach of 65 doesn't deter me at all. I can see more clearly, with this helpful advice: Do not give up while you still have something to give. Do not shut the door on love by saying it is impossible to find. Do not give up your dreams.
Sounds like words to live by. Like Edgar A. Guest's ''My Creed,''
My Creed
To live as gently as I can;
To be, no matter where, a man;
To take what comes of good or ill,
And cling to faith and honor still;
To do my best, and let that stand
The record of my brain and hand;
And then, should failure come to me,
Still work and hope for victory.
To have no secret place wherein
I stoop unseen to shame or sin;
To be the same when I'm alone
As when my every deed is known;
To live undaunted, unafraid
Of any step that I have made;
To be without pretense or sham
Exactly what men think I am.

To leave some simple work behind
To keep my having lived in mind;
If enmity to aught I show,
To be an honest, generous foe;
To play my little part, nor whine
That greater honors are not mine.
This I believe is all I need
For my philosophy and creed.

Cheers.