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