New Years Thoughts . . .

"Even the most successful of us can lose our status overnight. The only things under our control, ultimately, are our attitude and the choices we can make. Gratitude—a great attitude—is essential. With that, one can adapt to nearly anything in life. It is even better than a fat bank account. So, whatever it takes to develop skill in maintaining a great attitude, that is what one should engage in, in a deep way. Make the best choices you can, and do not get overly attached to outcome. Along with that, one should associate with people who manifest the characteristics one wishes to develop. The nature of who one is, and one’s healing, occurs most easily in community, not in isolation." ~Dr. Hedaya

"The three greatest predictors of happiness are optimism (the belief your behavior will eventually matter), social connection, and how we perceive stress (as a challenge or as a threat). If we want to raise happiness we need to make both mindset and behavior shifts."

~Kathy Caprin

New Year prayer sent to me by a friend. "May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not always understand. May the pain you have known and the conflict you have experienced give you the strength to walk through life facing each new situation with courage and optimism. Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will always be there, even when you feel most alone. May you discover the goodness in others to believe in a world of peace. May a kind word, a reassuring touch, a warm smile be yours every day of your life, and may you give these gifts as well as receive them. Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending." ~Author Unknown

From a conversation with my sister, Sandy Albrecht, "Most spiritual traditions never ask people to be perfect. They only require us to love one another and to forgive each other. We should do this for ourselves as well." Let compassion begin at home.