Reflections on Success

 

Revisiting 'Reflections on Success' by Ralph Waldo Emerson

How do you measure success?
To LAUGH often and much;
To win RESPECT of intelligent people
and the AFFECTION of children;
To earn the APPRECIATION of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To APPRECIATE BEAUTY.

To leave the world a bit better
whether by a healthy child,
a redeemed social condition,
or a job well done;
To know even one other life has breathed
because you lived
this is to have succeeded.



This is so true. I found it in an old notebook I kept of quotes. Going through my old files reminds me of the things in life I cherish most, my talents, and my inspirations. Things are slowly improving for me as I learn to find true happiness in life. Life is too short to live stressed out and oppressed. We need to learn to walk or run to our own rhythm. To claim happiness as it is, to experience joy daily. Lately things have been so much better...so much truer. In a time I was hurting but trusting, God sent friends to encourage, inspire, and share. He reminded me of my talents and showed me that to follow my dreams was to serve Him. I was reminded that we are all created as unique beings and success for one may not be success for another. Run hard after your dreams and inspirations and don't let anyone hold you back - not even yourself.

Find true success in who you are.