Ten Life Lessons

     I look up at heaven and say to my husband, “It started with just you and me, now we number twenty-seven. I see the faces of our children, their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren and realize how blessed we are.  My crystal ball sees more great grandchildren arriving in the future.

 I have been blessed to be here on this earth for seventy-eight years. and hoping for many more. I have experienced life in all its forms; love, pain, disappointment, sadness, joy and struggles. But something happens from living a long life. You learn what is important.

For the last twenty-five years I have delved into the genealogy world. What started out as just a curiosity, turned into a lesson of not just where we came from, but what our ancestors can teach us, but also who we are as family.

My heart is full. How do I pass this knowledge of living a life of joy effectively so it is understood.  These are my "Ten Life Lessons".

1. The most important lesson my dad taught me, for as long as I can remember, "Family First", without them you have nothing. Keep them close and protect that relationship.

2.  All marriages run into difficulties.  Don't give up so quickly, hang on, for in time all will heal and you will  discover the love you have for each other remains and has grown even stronger for what you endured.  What a great gift you give yourself, love everlasting. 

3. Don't be quick to judge a family member. You cannot fully understand what problems they may be going through. Try to be patient, loving and understanding.  Don't assume their unusual behavior has anything to do with you. Give them time to resolve their situation.

4. Everyone needs financial help at one time or another. You may have been given monetary assistance without judgement or question of having to pay it back. Just remember, pay it forward without expectations of repayment. It's all about love and supporting each other.

5. Continue the family traditions that have been practiced and carried forward for so many generations. Life can get crazy busy with work, children, and all that it entails.  These special gatherings of  Christmas, birthday parties, and summer cook-outs, keep you connected to one another.

6. Encourage each other, so that they may build confidence in themselves to achieve the dreams they are seeking. We all need someone to believe in us. Be that cheerleader.

7. Life is shorter  than you think. Always accept invitations when possible from family and friends, for the opportunity may never come again. Don't regret missed life experiences with those who are important to you.

8. Learn to forgive. Everyone makes mistakes, forgive them. Not everyone has the same beliefs as you, accept it. Not everyone has the same values as you, understand it. Not everyone has the same life-style as you, be open-minded. Being critical of others doesn't bring you joy, let it go. 

9. Be kind to yourself. We can be our worst enemy. We are more judgmental of ourselves than anyone else ever could be. Erase the negative thoughts that rob you of your happiness.  Accept yourself.  Believe you are worthy because you are. You are perfect the way you are. 

10. Lastly, find peace. There is so much tragedy in the world. We are confronted with it daily and it can rob you of contentment and at times make you fearful. You have to look for it through faith, the beauty of nature, the sounds of birds and ocean waves.  Connect with family and friends to share laughter.  Don't let negativity drag you down, smile, happiness and contentment is out there and can be yours if you seek it.