LESSONS FOR LIVING

When asked on her 74th birthday what she thought of growing older, the talented poet, Dr. Maya Angelou, responded with these words:

I’ve learned that no matter what happens or how bad today seems, life goes on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he or she handles three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I’ve learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you’ll miss them when they’re gone.

I’ve learned that making a living is not the same as making a life.

I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.

I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t need to be one.

I’ve learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug or just a friendly pat on the back.

I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn.

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said and forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

Dr. Angelou’s words of wisdom offer these valuable lessons on living for all of us to consider:

– look forward to each new day
– don’t get carried away with yourself
– appreciate life’s blessings
– be there for others

God gave us life for a purpose, my friends.  Fulfilling that purpose can be exhilarating.

Let us pray:  Teach us how to squeeze meaning and purpose from each and every day, Lord.  Remind us that we don’t need to have all the answers to experience life’s joys.  Encourage us always to share the gift of unending joy that you have first shared with us through your Son, Jesus Christ.  In his name, we pray.  Amen.