There have been times throughout my life when I have fallen, whether through temptation, envy or jealousy, leaving me ashamed of the person I have become.  But each time, I have somehow managed to stagger to my feet, determined to become a better person; lead a better life… one I can be proud of.

Today, I look at life in a very different way.  I’m no longer tempted to take what isn’t mine, envy what others may have or allow feelings of jealousy deprive me of happiness.  I have learned to accept and be thankful for what I have.  Age and experience have taught me much.

This wonderful world in which I live provides me with considerably more than material possessions.  Nature itself, in all her glory, has so much to offer.  I am blessed with the warmth of the sun and the coolness of rain; an abundance of vibrant plants and flowers and fresh, clean air in which to breathe.

Music and poetry soothe my soul and I find the comfort I crave in the love of family and friends.

One thing I have learned from my time on earth is that sometimes it’s necessary to fail in order to succeed.  Only then can we truly appreciate what we achieve.

And while striving to earn respect, it is just as important to respect others.  Otherwise, how are we able to respect ourselves?

That is why, during times of trouble, whether personal or beyond my control, I constantly remind myself of these words…

Life is good
Love yourself
For you are your greatest gift

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Carrie OLeary
Carrie OLeary(@carrie-oleary)
9 months ago

A beautiful story, Linda. Perhaps if we could all live life that way, there would be a lot less strife in the world. Very nicely done.

Christer Norrlof
Christer Norrlof(@christer-norrlof)
9 months ago

Reading your well written story, so full of wisdom and compassion, reminded me that I once saw that there is a special Japanese word for objects which are broken and repaired. The word is “kintsugi”and it means “golden repair.” The meaning is that a thing which has a background, a history, has a value and the damage should not be hidden. On the contrary, imperfections are embraced. This is what I see… Read more »

Lotchie Carmelo
Lotchie Carmelo(@lotchie-carmelo)
9 months ago

Linda, I also reminded myself of those words, “Life is good. Love yourself. For you are your greatest gift”. I’ll admit, I feel too emotional after reading your story. I remember all my hardships, problems, and pain. Don’t get me wrong for being too emotional. I just reflected on your story. I want you to know that you did it well. It is beautiful and well written, Linda.

Greene M Wills
Greene M Wills(@greene-m-wills)
9 months ago

My cat, my faithful companion for 18 years, has left me last week. I cling to the happy memories and struggle through my grief of missing her so much… Your story has soothed me. Thank you, Linda.

Carrie OLeary
Carrie OLeary(@carrie-oleary)
Reply to  Greene M Wills
9 months ago

Greene, sending so much love to you. We lost one of our cats last year just before his 18th birthday, so I really do understand how you feel. We still have his sister, she’ll be 19 next month, and four younger cats, but it doesn’t make losing our old boy any less painful. Hugs from me and my menagerie xx

Greene M Wills
Greene M Wills(@greene-m-wills)
Reply to  Carrie OLeary
9 months ago

Thank you, Carrie. We still have our boy cat but, at 14, he is not spring chicken either. I guess we wish our furbabies were immortal…

Sandra James
Sandra James(@sandra-james)
9 months ago

Beautiful reflection and message, Linda. One we should put on the fridge and read every morning as a reminder. Well done!

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