"Notes" of An Elder

Nothing in life is of any value unless it is shared with others.

"Notes" of An Elder is a depository of pertinent information, knowledge and wisdom. Available weekly will be an elder's "thinking menu" for your use. Enjoy this bounty.

• You can't stop the rain, but you can make sure you've got the best and biggest umbrella.

• Take risks to overcome obstacles and achieve great things. Taking risks usually means doing things differently in ways no one has tried.

• If you surround yourself with happy people, you're more likely to be happy.

• People who merely tell others what to do aren't leaders.

• You spend the most time with yourself. It's important your inner dialogue is positive and encouraging.

• Failure occurs only when people don't learn from their mistakes.

• Revise your opinions when the evidence demands it.

• No one needs to be a prisoner of bad habits.

• Win or lose, you better be comfortable with taking responsibility for the consequences.

Four Freedoms

• Freedom of Speech

• Freedom of Worship

• Freedom from Want

• Freedom from Fear

• Leaders envision a future that others cannot imagine.

• Mindfulness means staying aware and focused.

• What five adjectives would you want someone at your funeral to use to describe you?

• A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see in yourself and then helps bring that out.

• You create your own heaven or hell.

• To master your mind is to master your life. There is no more worthwhile pursuit.

• Become your own best friend. Few people go out of their way to give themselves rewards and treats, so be generous with yourself.

• No matter how bad things get, there is always a way.

• Leadership is never solitary. It concerns and depends on other people.

• Be the reason someone believes in good people.

Magic Request

Tell me one thing you think I should change.