As one gets older, it becomes evident that an order in living a life is
necessary for a sense of well being to occur. I have seen on a
personal level over the decades, adoption of certain notions that have
proved time again, through out history, of their value in one's ability to
sleep at night.
Honesty is the big one. Without rigorous honesty (a phrase found
within the recovery culture), I would not be here today. It is a tall
order to look oneself in the mirror and state to that image there are things
to correct. Accountability, self respect, and the ability to move
through life without hurting anyone is the key. Honesty makes that
happen.
Live and let live is important too. I don't break the law. I keep the exterior of my home in a neat, clean and orderly fashion. I keep my appointments and I don't judge others so long as they don't try to shove their opinions or lifestyles down my throat. This country allows for diversity in its constitution. I accept that and realize the USA has been the melting pot of the universe since its creation. Just go about your business, be helpful when you can, and don't worry too much about those things that whirl outside of your circle of experience. As my hero, the lone western frontier type would say, there's no money in it.
Don't try to be something that your not. Be yourself. I don't want you to be yourself if that means being a jerk. A jerk is anyone whose behavior is hurting others unfairly. Yes, this requires a grasp of paradox to understand. "Be yourself" implies the use of the great characteristics of life; honesty, courage, loyalty, compassion, friendship, and perseverance. These things are a must in any person's makeup and must be a part of you being yourself, otherwise, well, I think you get the picture.
Men and boys: Remember who you are. Look to the great lives in history and even to those among us who live a quality life, who are nothing like the bumbling idiots that we find on TV. We work hard and with purpose. We fight fair. We treat a lady with respect and are the hope in our children's eyes. We know how we feel about all things including God, taxes and the border. We understand the privilege found in living in America and are there to protect that privilege. We are not the bumbling idiots that are on TV. We are true to our loves and hold them above all things. We persevere. We are loyal. Our women and girls need us to be courageous and fight for their wellbeing.
Humility. Humble yourself in your life. Remain teachable. Admit mistakes. A Know-It-All is a boring person. Allow grace and the hand of others into your life. My wife's favorite saying is "pride goeth before a fall." Watch the pride, earn it first and then be grateful for whatever elicits the pride. It takes a lifetime to make a life of value. No one event makes or breaks a life, but humility will bring a great sense of self worth in its ability to teach.
I will add to this page periodically.