Like most people, the farther down the path I get, the more I learn and the more I realize I have to learn. I like thinking sometimes that I'm fairly bright, but then I'm bowled over at the thought of so many poor choices I've made. I like to think that each of us has things we're supposed to do while we're here. The hope...MY hope is that the few situations and places in which I've played a role have been made somehow better for my having been there. Looking back, I think that's been the case here and there, but I guess I'd leave the matter to others to decide how successful I've been.

Sometimes, I'll take a minute outside on breezy evening and just look around at birds, squirrels, the trees and people out for a walk. As I listen to the wind, it's almost as if I can feel my life blowing past me....and much faster than I thought it would. I wonder if there's some fight or cause or purpose I should have fought for with more focus. Occasionally, it's hard to find a substantive purpose.

In the end, I believe I've felt the greatest peace and measure of happiness when I've taken advantage of opportunities to help others. I think, over time, the standard I've tried to adopt is, 'If I can, I will.'

Be purposeful in smiling at others. Have respect. Engage people beyond idle chatter. Be concerned for and helpful to others....and, only when necessary, use your words to underscore those ideas. Be aware that people sometimes have a hard time hearing and listening to us when our actions speak too loudly.

We've all met people on occasion and have instantly sensed that they are good or friendly or compassionate simply by what they radiate. Not too sure how good I am at that, but I want to be one of those people. Maybe, if I get even a little good at all that, my life will have meant something.