There is a little book I had for 12 years called “Life’s Little Instruction Book: 511 Suggestions, Observations, and Reminders on How to Live a Happy and Rewarding Life”.
I was browsing it again. Obviously many things I may not agree with like “once in your life own a convertible
(car)”. But there are many good ones. Here is a selection I share with you:
1-Admit your mistakes
2-Be forgiving of yourself and others
3-Say thank you a lot
4-Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen everyday
5-Never deprive someone of hope. It might be all they have
6-Teach some kind of class or workshop
7-Show respect for teachers
8-Praise in public, criticise in private
9-Stop blaming others. Take responsibility for every area of your life
10-Clean and floss your teeth
11-Think big thoughts but relish small pleasures
12-Learn to listen, opportunity sometimes knocks very softly
13-Have some knowledge (and respect) for three religions other than your own
14-Be enthusiastic about the success of others
15-Don’t be afraid to say these things: “I don’t know”, “I made a mistake”, “I need help”. “I am sorry”
16-Don’t use time or words carelessly-neither can be retrieved
17-Don’t trust politicians
18-Do plant trees
19-Do wash your hands
20-Do more than is expected
21-Keep good company
22-Keep a daily journal
23-Keep your promises
24-Keep secrets
25-Have impeccable manners
26-Be original
27-Be neat
28-Be kinder than necessary
29-Be best friend to your wife/husband/partner
30-Be courteous to everyone
31-Be a self-starter
32-Be loyal
33-Look for opportunities to make people feel important
34-Focus on making things better, not bigger
35-Seek opportunities, not security. Remember that a boat in harbour is safe but in time its bottom will rot.
36-Take charge of your attitude. Don’t let someone else choose it for you
37-Take care of your reputation- it is your most valuable asset
38-Know when to keep silent, know when to speak out. Live your life as an exclamation, not an explanation
39-Reduce, reuse, recycle
40-Show respect for all living things
41-Commit yourself to constant self-improvement
42-Become the most positive and enthusiastic person you know
43-Never underestimate the power of a kind word or deed
44-Never ever give up
45-Watch for big problems, they disguise big opportunities
Stay human, stay safe, stay positive.
Mazin Qumsiyeh
Professor, founder, and (volunteer) director
Palestine Museum of Natural History
Bethlehem University
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