my guiding principles

Here are some of my guiding principles, originally documented in mid-2010. They have become my guide for daily existence...

• What I do matters but I am not in charge.
• Think good thoughts.
• What I pay attention to thrives.
• If I wouldn't do or say it on the evening news, then don't.
• Choose peace always.
• Some burdens are a privilege.
• It should be fun to be me.
• Does this serve my greater purpose? (I ask myself this question whenever I am struggling with an issue, habit, etc.)
• Stress is self-imposed.
• Now is all that matters.
• Be a beacon of peace, joy, and light.
• Always consider whether behavior or actions support your principles.

Peace by William Ellery Channing

Peace is the highest and most strenuous act of the soul, but an entirely harmonious act, in which all our powers and affections are blending in a beautiful proportion, and sustain and perfect one another. It is more than the silence after storms. It is as the concord of all melodious sounds, an alliance of love with all beings, a sympathy with all that is pure and happy, a surrender of every separate will and interest, a participation of the spirit and life of the universe.... This is peace, and true happiness. -William Ellery Channing

‎Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is Enlightenment. -Lao Tzu

Living our ideals, allows us to fulfill our life's mission without effort. The key is knowing your ideals. Once you know your ideals, practice them daily, and your soul work will unfold and resolve itself.