Instructions for Life

I've been meaning to put this up for some time. It's all over the net but hell, I always need reminding. Incidentally, it's really not by the Dalai Lama, contrary to popular belief.

• Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
  
• When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
  
• Follow the three Rs: Respect for self, Respect for others and Responsibility for all your actions.
  
• Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.
  
• Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
  
• Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
  
• When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
  
• Spend some time alone every day.
  
• Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.
  
• Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
  
• Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.
  
• A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
  
• In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.
  
• Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.
  
• Be gentle with the earth.
  
• Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.
  
• Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
  
• Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.
  
• Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon. [this one is too near and dear to my heart.]