to know that one life has breathed easier

to laugh often and much;
to win the 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 find the best in others;
to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition;
to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.

this is to have succeeded.

~ r. w. emerson (1803 – 1882)

~ by safrang on July 2, 2009.