Don't cry over spilled milk

When life does not turn out the way you expect it to, you have two choices.  You can cry about it, or grow from it.  The choice is yours.  You can be a victim of circumstance or master of your own fate.  Everybody suffers in one way or another, but it is not whether or not we have suffered, rather what we do with our suffering.  So, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade".  In other words, turn life’s challenges and adversity into learning experiences that will help you succeed.

Get in tune with your body

There may be times in your life when you find yourself stressed and out of sorts.  This is the time to get in tune with your body.  Take a few minutes to quiet your mind and really listen to what your body is trying to tell you.  Once you are relaxed, make a mental list of your daily activities.  Then go through them individually and feel how your body reacts.  Are you getting a peaceful, happy feeling in the pit of your stomach, or a nervous, uncomfortable feeling?  The solution is simple.  Do less of the things that make you feel bad, and more of the things that make you feel good.  Be honest with yourself.  We all have bad habits that seem to make us feel good, like partying every weekend, but if the feeling doesn't last then you know it is something you need to do less of.  Maybe your job is making you feel bad, but you can't quit for one reason or another.  Compensate by doing more things that make you feel good, like a new hobby. The more in tune you are with your body, the happier you will be.

Forgiveness

One day you are going to be hurt by someone's words or actions toward you.  It is only natural to be upset by it.  But if you allow the negative feelings toward this person to fester, you might find yourself filled with bitterness and anger.  These feelings only hurt you.  So you need to learn to forgive.  Forgiveness doesn't mean you excuse what the person did to you.  Forgiveness allows you to separate the act from the person.  It gives you permission to replace anger with love. In so doing you bring yourself inner peace which helps you to move on with your life. 

Be the star of your own life

Don't sit back and watch others take the lead in your play.  Don't settle for a supporting role.  This is your life and you are the star.  You are not meant to be a stand in while someone else plays the lead.  Take center stage and play your part with gusto, so at the end of act three you can take your bows and receive a standing ovation for a life well lived.

 

Moisturize each day to keep the blemishes away

I know that my grandsons may not think these words of wisdom about skin care applies to them, but it does.  The human skin is the body's largest organ and requires regular attention to stay young, blemish free and healthy.  The skin on your face, neck, chest, and even your ears are very sensitive to environmental changes so moisturizing is essential.  These areas shed cells more rapidly and need moisture to repair itself, which allows for younger skin cells to rise to the surface. Using moisturizer on your entire body, will keep your skin soft and healthy looking.  Make sure to your skin has been washed clean before putting on a moisturizer to obtain all the benefits.

Never give up

When life is difficult and things aren't going your way, it is so easy to give up.  You may be working toward a goal, or trying to accomplish something, but every which way you turn everything seems to turn against you.  It's as if there is one obstacle after another getting in your way.  Realize like the ocean, there is ebb and flow in the tide of human existence.  When you become so frustrated and can't hold on a minute longer, never give up.  The tide will soon turn.

Religion is just a path

There are different religions throughout the world, many claiming to be the only one leading to God.  Religion is just a path for finding your truth.  Religion is not truth, religion is just a path.  Live your life from the spirit within.  This is your true essence.  In this state you have no body, no race, no culture, no religion.  It is there you are connected to your God source.  It is there you are connected to your truth.

 

I love you

I love you is three simple words that are so very powerful.  I think that is why people are afraid to say it.  No one likes to feel vulnerable.  It's easy to tell your family you love them, because they love you unconditionally, but it's harder to put your heart on the line for anyone else.  So you question yourself.  What if they don't love me back?  What if I drive them away? Those are important questions, but what if they do love you?  Don't be the person who looks back and wonders what may have happened if you had just told the person you love them.  Life is all about taking risks.  To be loved is a special gift, and to tell someone that you find them loveable is very selfless.  You never run out of love.  It is like a river that forever flows.  If one person doesn't return your love, it doesn't mean that the next one won't.  It is better to express love, then to hoard it - no matter the outcome.  Love is meant to be shared. 

Always tell the truth

Most relationships are based on truth.  If you are a person who tells the truth, people will trust and respect you.  If you do lie and someone finds out, your reputation will be tarnished and your trustworthiness will always be questioned.  Tell the truth and you will never have to worry about being caught in a lie.

Learn CPR

You may never have to use CPR in your life, but I believe it is very important for you to learn this life saving skill.  ln learning CPR you may be able to save the life of a family member or friend - from infants, to children, adults to the elderly.  CPR is like learning to change a flat tire.  You may never have to do it, but it's nice to know you can.  When you are old enough, make sure CPR is one course that you volunteer to take.  You'll be happy you did.

 

Don't judge by appearances.

Don't make assumptions about someone based on the way they look, where they live, how much money they make, or other things society and the media tell you is important.  Take the time to get to know a person's heart and character.  When you do, you will find that people are completely different then you ever imagined, and full of surprises and hidden talents.

 

Remember how special you are

I can tell you a thousand times how special you are, but it won't matter if you don't believe it. You need to accept this as fact, because it is true.  When you truly love yourself, flaws and all, and quit comparing yourself to others, you will realize how truly special you are.  No one is perfect, but everyone is unique. You are unique. If you learn to appreciate your uniqueness and love and respect yourself every day in every way, you will never forget how special you are.

People and circumstances aren't always kind or fair

You can't control how others behave or the circumstance that life presents to you.  Being kind and fair is not a sign of weakness, but strength of character.  Treat others the way you want to be treated.  And while you may not be able to control your circumstances, you can control how you react to them and what you do about them.

Be thankful!

As the new year begins it reminds me to be thankful.  People who are thankful don't necessarily have everthing they want, but are grateful for what they do have.  People who count their blessings are generally happier and healthier than people who don't.  So...if you can hear, be thankful.  If you can see, be thankful.  If you have a roof over your head and food in your stomach, be thankful.  If you have a job and money in your pocket be thankful.  If you are in good health, have family and friends who love you, be thankful.  Look around.  There is so much to be thankful for.  Practice an attitude of gratitude and you might just realize how good your life is after all.