Chapter 5, Page 31, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

All good things take time…

Patience is the best remedy for every trouble. 

 Plautus

 The basic definition of patience is, waiting without complaint.  Patience means not getting put out when things do not turn out just as we wish.

Patience stifles anger, and sweetens the temper, and subdues pride. Patience bridles the tongue, so that it shall not speak in anger, and holds back the hand from striking in wrath. Patience makes us humble in prosperity, and cheerful in adversity. Patience comforts the poor, and restrains the rich.

Some people never really master the art of being patient, and at times, all of us struggle with being patient.

Patience is the ability to count down before you blast off. 

Author Unknown

We all want good things to happen in our lives, but too often we want it now, not later.  We spend a lot of time in our lives waiting because change is a process. Many people want change, but they don't want to go through the waiting process.  But we can't have patience without the waiting. But just because we're waiting doesn't necessarily mean we have patience. It's how we wait that counts.

There have been many times that I’ve prayed for patience and then have been made to wait.  The value in the lesson is that good things do come to those who wait.  

Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.

John Quincy Adams

Chapter 5, Page 30, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Don’t let the majority rule

A lie doesn’t become truth, wrong doesn’t become right, and evil doesn’t become good just because it’s accepted by a majority.

 Rick Warren

It’s popular to take a vote and let the majority rule.  But there are things in our life that we must keep sacred and true.  There are times when we must think for ourselves and be true to our own beliefs.  

When it comes to what I do or think, there are very few times in my life that I’ve gone along with the majority of what people think. I haven’t followed the crowd. I’ve always tried to be my own person and haven’t always been the most popular person either.  

Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.

 Mark Twain

Thinking about the basic standards I've set for myself, it’s impossible for me accept a lot of the things that the majority of people think of as acceptable today. I’m guided by the principles, that when followed, promote values such as trust, good behavior, fairness, and kindness.   Neither consensus nor majority rule works when people are only out for themselves.  Love isn’t selfish.

The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience.

Harper Lee

Chapter 5, Page 29, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Honor

Our dead brothers still live for us, and bid us think of life, not death -- of life to which in their youth they lent the passion and joy of the spring. As I listen, the great chorus of life and joy begins again, and amid the awful orchestra of seen and unseen powers and destinies of good and evil our trumpets sound once more a note of daring, hope, and will

Oliver Wendel Homes

Memorial Day is a day for memories. We remember those who fought and died in our many wars. We also remember those who fought and survived, those who were willing to die for their country.

It’s also the unofficial date for the beginning of summer and that reminds me of the freedoms we wouldn’t have if it wasn’t for those who bravely protect our country.

Because of them we can sit back and enjoy our barbecues, have picnics and play with our children.  We can march in parades and wave our flags because we are proud to be Americans and live in the land of the free and the brave.  

I think that one of the best ways to show our honor to these brave men and women, is we to live life honorably, in the best way we can .  They gave a lot so we could enjoy the freedoms we have. 

And I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died,
who gave that right to me.

Lee Greenwood

Chapter 5, Page 28, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

We are what we think

Thinking is easy, acting is difficult, and to put one's thoughts into action is the most difficult thing in the world. 

Johann von Goethe

The longer I live the more I realize how strong a connection exists between our thoughts and our actions. Every action has a starting place, and that place is in our thoughts. The only things we can control in life are our thoughts, attitudes and behaviors.  If we don't control our attitudes, they will surely control us. 

A good attitude is most important as it is displayed for others to see. And how we relate to those others determines how our life will be.

How we think shows through in how we act. Attitudes are mirrors of the mind. They reflect thinking.

David Joseph Schwartz

Only you can decide how to spend your time, whom you socialize with, whom you share your life, money and energy with.  You can pick your words and the tone of voice in which you speak to others.  You can select what you will eat, read and study every day.  You can choose how you’re going to respond to unfortunate situations when they arise, and whether you will see them as curses or opportunities for growth.

And most importantly, you can choose your attitude, which dictates pretty much everything else. A stubbornly positive attitude can often make the difference between happiness and misery.

Never be afraid to sit awhile and think.

Lorraine Hansberry

Chapter 5, Page 27, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Plan your work and work your plan

You have three choices: give up, give in, give it all you’ve got

Author Unknown 

There is a wise old saying that says: Plan your work, and work your plan. I’m finding the wisdom in these words as I go through my day, my week, my month tacking on activities and commitments and responsibilities without working them into the plan.

Planning your work simply means be clear of your goals and plan accordingly.  If I want to get something done I need a daily plan.  Setting goals is important if you want to succeed and if you have plan in place then your goal each day is to work your plan.  It sounds very simple, but it's easier said than done. 

I read an article that said a popular and easy to remember acronym  has been successful in helping countless people reach their goals is the word smart.

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Timely
Specific: Make sure your goal is as specific as possible. 

Measurable: Goals that are hard to measure are goals that are hard to meet. 

Attainable: Make sure the goal itself is reachable.

 Realistic: It is important to dream big dreams and aim high, but don’t set yourself up for disappointment by trying to reach an unrealistic goal. 

Timely: People who set goals without target completion dates rarely accomplish their objectives.

Have a plan, one that stays flexible, allowing for disruptions and transition and the unexpected so you know what direction you are headed! There may be a bend in the road or a detour ahead, but at least you know where you need to get to next, what task to tackle after you’ve taken care of this present one.

Plan well. Prepare diligently. Pray hard. Then, go for it with your whole heart.

Charles R. Swindoll

Chapter 5, Page 26, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

In the morning when I rise…

I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps a bit of magic waiting somewhere behind the morning… 

 John Boynton Priestley

In the early quiet of each morning I say a prayer, read my devotionals and give thanks for a new day and have a little coffee. : )  I’ve always loved the early morning, even though I’m not a morning person.  I’m not a good conversationalist and not good company until I’ve had my quiet time.  

Having a large family at home for many years, led me to getting up earlier than they did.  Even when I worked I got up at least a half hour early.  The quiet early morning when I rise is the starting point of my day and if I don’t get that time, things never go as well.  

I need those moments to check in with myself.  To think about what is on the agenda for the day.  Being retired, they are even times I need to remember what day it is.  It’s true what they say about retirement making you feel like every day is the weekend.  But it’s not the weekend yet and there is things that need to be done before then.

Rise early, reap the rewards

The minute we wake up, we can choose to get out of bed and make the most of our day or press the snooze button, roll over, pull the blankets over our head, and feel dread about the day ahead. This is nobody's choice but ours.

Whatever it is that we intend to do each day, we need be clear about what it is you want your day to be.  We are what we think.  Since we have total control over our thoughts, we also have the power to start our day on a super positive note each and every day.

Old times never come back and I suppose it's just as well. What comes back is a new morning every day in the year, and that's better. 

George E. Woodberry

Chapter 5, Page 25, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Truth is often scary, and it hurts pretty bad sometimes and sometimes it even changes everything

Truth has no special time of its own.  Its hour is now--always.

Albert Schweitzer

Telling the truth is never easy but truth has incredible power in itself and is a necessary part of living a fulfilling life. It is not only beneficial for the person who is telling the truth, but also for the person who is told the truth. 

If you tell the truth you don't have to remember anything. 

Mark Twain

I think the worst thing about being lied to is knowing you're not worth the truth. I’ve been in that situation and it is painful.  I’d rather know the real truth of the matter than to be lied to.  Truth might be painful to some, but lying can hurt even more.

When our lives are guided by our values, our decisions are based on truth  By being true to yourself, it becomes easier for you to be true to others. 

A lie may take care of the present, but it has no future. 

Author Unknown

Being able to tell the truth will earn your respect because telling the truths shows that you really care for others. The truth might often be painful to hear, so we need to learn to deliver it in a way that won’t lead other people to get defensive. Truth that comes from a place of love and consideration will always be appreciated.

Always tell the truth. If you can't always tell the truth, don't lie. 

Author Unknown

Chapter 5, Page 24, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Don’t let a small argument ruin a great friendship.  Life is too short to argue for days about insignificant things like being late or forgetting to call.

I don't have to attend every argument I'm invited to. 

Author unknown

Sad but true I’ve known some whose arguments went on for a life time.  So I’m taking a little time sharing some good advice that I’ve found to be true.   We need to remember that arguments are no more than two points of view that don’t coincide. It’s inevitable that disagreements will occasionally occur between people who are close. What’s more, occasional arguments can be a healthy indication of two confident personalities who feel comfortable enough to express their true feelings.

Keep your words soft and tender because tomorrow you may have to eat them.  

Author Unknown

 Nobody is perfect, and we all will do something to hurt another person at some point in our lives.  Next time you argue with a friend, accept that you have different points of view and get over it! Your friendship is far more important than anything you may quarrel over. Don’t sacrifice the relationship you’ve built together for the sake of winning a point.

The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is your own. No apologies or excuses. No one to lean on, rely on, or blame. The gift is yours — it is an amazing journey — and you alone are responsible for the quality of it. This is the day your life really begins.

Bob Mouawad

Life is too short to let negative emotions keep us from the ones we love.  If apologies are needed, make them. If forgiveness is required, offer it. By moving past the argument, you both come out winners .

An apology is a good way to have the last word.  

Author Unknown

Chapter 5, Page 23, Book 17

Here I am with my daughter and her son.

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

There is only one you

You are unique--there is no one else like you.

Marva Collins

In case you haven’t met me,  I’d like to give you an introduction.

I’m thankful to be me.  I’m not a young chick, I’m getting older.  I don’t try to be anyone else. I know my age and am not ashamed of it.  I’ve lived a great life for the most part and have no regrets.  

So many try to be something they’re not.  Not me.  For all my grey hair and wrinkles I’m not looking to be anyone else.  

I’m a grand’ma’, I’m a mom and I’m a sister and a friend.  I’ve got many hats, but they all belong to me.  I don’t try to copy anyone’s style or looks.  Most of what I own is old and so are the clothes I wear.  Truthfully, though I’ve got so much that nothing I have is ever going to wear out in this lifetime.  

About all you can do in life is be who you are. Some people will love you for you. Most will love you for what you can do for them, and some won’t like you at all. 

Rita Mae Brown

I don’t compare myself to others, because I’m an original.There are no two of a kind. If we were all the same, what a boring world we’d live in.  I believe that we are who we are and should be what we were meant to be.  Unique, individual and wonderful!

I’m plump, well rounded, and I wear clunky shoes and baggy pants because they are comfortable and at this point in my life being comfortable is wonderful.   I’m not what I once was, but never better.  

I’m an encourager because I know how much it means to get a kind word, a pat on the back or a hug.  I’ve known the power of a smile and how wonderful it is to have someone who cares enough to be at my side.

I’m a believer.  My faith is very important to me.  We all need that in our lives.  I’m a widow.  I lost the love of my life to a sudden heart attack.  I have also lost a grandson and a son, but because I have faith, I know that they are in a better place than we could ever imagine, and who can be sad about that. We, the ones that are left behind, will miss them, but keep them close in our hearts forever.

I’m a positive thinker.  We are called to rejoice and be glad in all circumstances.  Whenever I get down, I count my blessings of which there are many.  I’m too blessed to be stressed and even though every day may not be a good one, there is something good to be found in every day if you take the time to look for it.

What more can I say? I’m me…unique and wonderfully made and thankful for it.

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. 

Dr. Seuss

Chapter 5, Page 22, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Every day is a gift, that is why we call it the present

Yesterday's the past, tomorrow's the future, but today is a gift. That's why it's called the present.

 Bil Keane

Believe it or not, research shows that we spend very little time living in the present. We spend a lot of time ruminating about the past, or speculating about the future. To make things worse, much of our thinking is negative. We think about the things we might have done, or we think about future dramas that may, in reality, never occur. Or we might just simply wish it was Friday, and effectively wish a significant portion of our lives away.

Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present. 

Albert Camus

Choosing to live in the past or the future not only robs you of enjoyment today, it robs you of truly living. The only important moment is the present moment.

It is said that life is not measured by the breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away. I’ve certainly many of those in my life.  I try to remember that living one day is the best way. Being thankful for and appreciating what I have each moment of my life.

Happy is the person who cherishes the precious lessons of the past and lives vigorously in the present.

Jerome Hines

Chapter 5, Page 21, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

A life without limits

Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.

Mae Jamison

Too many people are living their lives according to what others think is best for them, they live their lives according to what their parents think is best for them, to what their friends, their enemies and their teachers, their government and the media think are best for them

Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice.  The only limits in your life should be those that you set yourself.  Truth is that when you allow other people's words to stop you, they will.

I’m not in this world to live up to your expectations

and you’re not in this world to live up to mine.

Bruce Lee

Don’t let the opinions of others make you forget that you are not in this world to live up to the expectations of others, nor should you feel that others are here to live up to yours.  In fact, the more you approve of your own decisions in life, the less approval you need from everyone else.

You might feel unwanted and unworthy to one person, but you are priceless to another.  No matter how good you are to people, there will always be one negative person who criticizes you.   When you think of a life without limits you have a tendency to think that you can do anything.  Remember what works for others might not work for you.  

When a man has put a limit on what he will do, he has put a limit on what he can do. 

Charles M. Schwab

Chapter 5, Page 20, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Be a lifetime learner

You learn something every day if you pay attention. 

Ray LeBlond

This time of year many are celebrating graduations.  High School, College and even Nursery School says friend Jack.  Students are happy they’ve reach the point that school days are over, but they are in for a big surprise.  The truth is learning never stops. The older I get the more I’m finding out just how little I really know.  The older I get the less I know and the more I need to learn. In this fast and changing world something new is happening every day and for me every day is a school day.

Learning helps us more easily and readily adapt to new situations.  New situations happen more than we want sometimes.  Change is one constant we can depend on.

If you learn something new every day, you can teach something new every day.

Martha Stewart 

Very often I pass along what I’ve learned.  Some lessons in life are particularly hard and I have had to revisit them often.   I may seem repetitious when I talk about smiles, gratitude, love and faith, but they have great importance and effect so many different parts of our lives.  The lessons they can teach us are endless it seems.  Sometimes you suddenly understand something you've understood all your life, but in a new way.

It's a mistake, when life hands you a tough lesson, to think that you can get back at life by not learning it. 

Robert Brault

So far today I’ve learned a valuable lesson.  It’s one I’ve had to learn many times over. Life is  about simplifying and focusing on the genuine and true things in life that really make us happy, including the most important: family, friends, and our relationship with both God and ourselves. So often we forget our way to happiness. We get bogged down with negative feelings and the idea that life isn’t fair. Newsflash -- it’s not. Happiness can literally make you live longer and can certainly improve your health and quality of life. 

May each and every one of us to find our happiness today and live our lives free from the baggage that weighs us down.

People learn something every day, and a lot of times it’s that what they learned the day before was wrong. 

Bill Vaughan

 The lesson I learned about change:  

Be aware that change can happen in your life. This means understanding that things can and will be different from how they are now.

Change gives us a chance to learn something new.  Not all changes in life are bad, there are some good times that come with change. 

When you accept, embrace, and learn from change, you inevitably grow stronger. The ability to continuously accept change allows you to become as solid as a rock in the midst of violent storms all around you, even if you feel afraid.  When life fails to shake you up with its twists and turns, you realize that changes can’t break you.

To learn something new is a timeless pleasure and a valuable treasure.

Chapter 5, Page 19, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Each day holds the potential for a new chapter in my life

It was sunsets that taught me that beauty sometimes only lasts for a couple of moments, and it was sunrises that showed me that all it takes is patience to experience it all over again.

A J Lawless 

The quote about the sunsets got me to thinking how each day is a page in my life. Yesterday between sunrise and sunset, I lived another day.  I made the best of what came my way and I learned something new.

Life is like a book. There are good chapters, and there are bad chapters. But when you get to a bad chapter, you don’t stop reading the book! If you do…then you never get to find out what happens next!

Brian Falkner

My life is like a book.  It’s  an ever unfolding story, presenting new adventures and possibilities at each turn of the page. Events and activities, thoughts and ideas fill the pages of each chapter.

The world goes up and the world goes down,
And the sunshine follows the rain;
And yesterday's sneer and yesterday's frown
Can never come over again.

Charles Kingsly 

Your life is yours. You own it, and what you make of it is purely up to you. Others may support you in your aspirations, but, in the end, it’s your creation.   Create and cultivate your goals and aspirations. Think about them, decide how you are going to achieve them, and patiently pursue them.

Starting a new day is like turning another page.  It’s blank till you live it.  Like a page in a book, life happens one day at a time.

There's always a story. It's all stories, really. The sun coming up every day is a story. Everything's got a story in it. Change the story, change the world.

Terry Pratchett

Chapter 5, Page 18, Book 17

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts

Eleanor Roosevelt

Everyone needs care. Handle each other gently.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could all be a little more gentle with each other, and a little more loving, have a little more empathy, and maybe, we'd like each other a little bit more.

Judy Garland

Gentleness is strength. We need to know our strength and exercise caution. If we aren't careful,we may unwittingly hurt another person without intending to do so. Be especially cautious when interacting with fragile individuals such as children, sick people, or very old people.

Treat fragile people as though they might actually break. You do not need to be overprotective, just thoughtful.  Do not confuse gentleness with weakness either. The strongest people are those who can interact with others, touch others, speak with others, and love others in a patient and caring way. Being gentle is being able to hold someone without crushing them.

A gentle word is never lost... it cheers the heart when sorrow tossed, and lulls the cares that bruise it.

Hastings

One definition of gentle is being free from harshness, sternness, or violence. When people are harsh, stern or violent with others, they’re coming from a place of weakness. Weakness that leads them to try and control, manipulate, overpower, condescend, criticize, and demean.

We need to think before we act. If you are quick to anger, you may do something in the heat of the moment that you'll regret later on. Consider the consequences of what you are about to do. Don't react; respond.   It's easy to be rough with other people if you don't consider how your actions might make them feel. Be careful. Be gentle.

A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles. 

William Hazitt

Gentleness is a choice. A brave one. And in choosing gentleness, and respecting it, you are boldly accessing your true strengths.

Never, never is it possible to reach someone if you become angry or bitter only love and gentleness can do it. Maybe not this time but maybe the next or the hundredth time. 

 Cesar Chavez

Tip for today : Spread a little bit more love.