I don’t believe anyone could describe the way I look at life better than Ralph Waldo Emerson in his poem entitled Success.  I’ve had it with me for as many years as I can remember and would like to share it with you.

Success

To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.  This is to have succeeded.

                                                         -Ralph Waldo Emerson