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A Great Philosophy I am continually enchanted by this poem. I probably will remain so until the time I read it and see no new idea. So far, it seems like it changes as I do. To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; To me that is such a rich goal. By necessity I live with small means, but have come to appreciate a life that excludes most excesses. But more than that, I've come to enjoy simplicity and relish finding ways of doing more with less. What is the difference between elegance and luxury? Today I believe elegance would be defined as refined or of quality, subtle and graceful whereas luxury would be defined as self-indulgence. While I understand the distinction is narrow, I comprehend the distinctions more now than ever before. Living a valuable life, rather than an admired life is a worthy goal. To be worthy, not respectable; and wealthy, not rich; Wow...worthy, not respectable...a complex and sometimes scary concept, but truly important. We need to continually re-examine our personal values and make choices and decisions based on what we come to believe is important. Sometimes, societal values do not reflect our own. When that occurs, it is important to stand up for our beliefs. I want my life to reflect in both the way I behave, as well as the way I think and feel, that my motives are honorable and genuine; not pretense. I also want to be generous rather than selfish in my behavior and treatment of others. There is no gain in contributing to another persons dissatisfaction or insecurities. I know the value of good health. My love of the garden and growing food, the friends and family I have, my relationship with Frank are of great value to me. Simplest is often the most beautiful and most appealing aspect of life. I am a truly wealthy woman. Life is so amazingly good! To study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly; I'm not sure whether this wouldn't be more appropriately considered if separated into specific parts. However, it all relates significantly. If you've ever read 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, you'll recognize the concept here. Listen, listen, listen! Hear what people are telling you. Don't rush to tell your story or your feelings or experiences. Listen, hear and respond; don't react. To 'act frankly' deserves a special note...many people for various reasons whether good or bad, hide their true motives and behave in a manner intended to manipulate. To 'act frankly' tells us to be open and honest in our treatment of others. Everyone deserves the respect of making choices or decisions based on truth. When we hide our motives, we deny others the truth. Even if our intentions are to protect or prevent hurt, deception damages and disadvantages people. Listen to stars and birds, babes and sages, with open heart It is amazing what profound ideas will come from the most unlikely places. Don't close your mind or heart to things you don't understand or don't agree with. You never know when something will start to make sense. We change all the time. Let yourself grow. Bear all cheerfuly, do all bravely, await occasions, hurry never There is so much to appreciate in life. Even in the really bad times, there is always something unexpected that can give you strengh or pleasure or a smile. When we take out our hurt or anger on others, because of fear or lonliness or uncertainty, we shut ourselves away from the beauty and pleasure in life. We can often spend so much time trying to get what we want right now, that we miss the point! The opportunity to explore and enjoy every single aspect of life will arise for all of us... but we'll only notice if we're paying attention. Let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the commonplace. The term 'spiritual' means different things to different people, but in this case to me means the gifts, challenges, and everything else that affects me on that deeply personal level I might call spirit or soul. You don't need to seek grand or glorious acclaim or rewards. That which satisfies the soul is available for the taking in everyday living.