To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children ...

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“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children...to leave the world  a better place...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                 ~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

How easy it is to become so self absorbed that we forget there is more to life that achieving material things, and spend our time in pursuit of that which fuels our dreams without regard for the lives of those around us. Take a moment today to consider the words of Emerson, and consider how you might touch the lives of others. 

Consider your actions and words today and how they impact the lives around you. Do they move you and others to better themselves? Do they lift the spirit or echo with laughter and good will? 

Achieving your goals at the cost of others will not bring the satisfaction and fulfillment you desire. Strike a healthy balance between working toward your goals and enriching the lives of others today, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.

Today, I am grateful for a cool morning breeze, leaves dancing freely, and hummingbirds that hoover over my petunias. I am grateful for the caw of the crow, the aroma of moist earth and fireflies that adorn the night. I am grateful for the far-a-way bark of a lonely dog, for the hoot of the owl that echoes in the night, and for oceans teeming with life.

I am grateful for another day filled with laughter and light, for the promise of many tomorrows to complete my work, and for green grass beneath my feet. I am grateful for soft damp air, for pine trees that brave the storm, and lightening that invigorates the earth.

I am grateful for my children who always amaze me, for a spouse to share my life, and for family to hold me close. I am grateful for parents who taught me to find my way, for brothers and sisters who have brought me great joy, and for friends who have brightened the way.

And, I am grateful for you, dear reader, as you stop and share my day. May you laugh often and much as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.