Quick Poll

Should local school systems consider dropping some or all sports to help offset budget deficit problems?

Recent Polls

Blogs

Angela McRae

Tea with friends

Deberah Williams

Everyday Finesse

Lorrie Lynch

Who's News

Jim Griffith Columnist

Published Sunday, January 29, 2012

Three excellent rules for living a good life

All of us would do well to find and follow good rules for living.

Alice Freeman Palmer, a famous educator, was known as "the Ambassador of Sunshine."

When conducting a roundtable discussion, she was asked to reveal the secret of her cheerfulness.

"I will give you three simple rules," she said.

"First, commit something good to memory every day."

That could be a verse of Scripture, or a Biblical thought that better equips you to face life.

"Second, look for something to be happy about."

I like this. Look for the brighter side. Admittedly, there are some dark clouds on the horizon. Many are having a difficult time, but there is also something good about life for which we can be grateful.

"Third, do something for somebody every day."

Everyday? Yes, that's what she said.

These are three simple but excellent rules for living. And it is true that those who seem to have found the greatest joy in life find their happiness in helping others.

Doing for others is an investment in kindness that bears dividends of satisfaction for the doer.

As Jesus said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Comment On This Story

Times-Herald.com does not necessarily agree with the comments posted below. Responsibility of comments rests solely with the writer. Comments posted in ALL CAPS will be deleted.

Submission of a comment does not guarantee publication. Comments will be posted by a moderator after being scanned for abusive language, relevance, etc. See our Comments FAQ for more details.