Haply I May Remember
It is common to forget passwords, what we need at the grocery store, or where we left our phones, keys, or glasses. Sometimes we forget the name of someone we have recently been introduced to or even which day of the week it is. Most of us have walked into a room and forgotten why we walked in there or held a word on the tip of our tongue because we cannot remember it.
Yet we seldom forget our principles and we hold our values tight. We will never forget the ABCs, our children’s birthdays, or how to sing “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.” We establish routines, create acronyms, and set alarms to keep us from forgetting.
Certain things, however, are intrinsically important to remember yet we continue to forget. Weariness, anxiety, or preoccupation can lead to forgetting to eat or keep hydrated, schedule an appointment, or take care of ourselves mentally and emotionally. And then there are mindful thoughts we need to remember, lifestyle aphorisms that proffer healthy ways to live joyfully…
Honor your past but do not dwell in it. Be pleased with all that was good, learn from your shortcomings, and do not fear failure. Remember, God does not make mistakes, only imperfect people who try their best.
Do not let anyone steal your kindness. Live in Whoville with a welcoming mood and a warm heart that is two sizes too big. Remember, peace begins with a smile.
Color your world because everything is not black and white. Use fat crayons for that maximum sensory feeling and bold permanent markers so you never forget how it feels to be vibrant. Remember, colors are brighter when the mind is open.
If you find a feather, place it in your palm and puff it away with all your troubles. Watch it float and land somewhere new. Remember, you can start again, too.
Figure out what junk to throw away and what junk to keep. Learn what words to toss away and what words to speak. Remember, think before discarding the shoes another person wears.
When you feel worthless, think of a dandelion. Every part of the plant is a nutritious edible whose seeds are dispersed in the wind and multiply. Remember, see a wish, not a weed.
Do not spoil your dream. If you must, refrigerate it for a while but never freeze it. Remember, recipes are great, but you can also concoct your own.
Holding grudges and harboring anger harms you. Practice mercy and compassion even when it is undeserved. Remember, forgive even if you cannot forget.
Appreciate the good things in life. Express gratitude regularly and focus on what you have rather than what you lack. Remember, sigh, but also sing.
Believe in yourself and appreciate your worth. Face the sun and project confidence with a positive mindset like a sunflower. Remember, stand tall, own who you are, and explode yellow!
Not all nights are filled with stars. It is okay to feel sad sometimes but it’s better to catch the bus to La-La Land than the train to Woe-is-Me. Remember, the sun will come out tomorrow.
When you catch someone snoring, ask God to allow only kind words to exhale from their mouth, only soothing thoughts to inhale into their head, and that when they open their eyes, they only see blue skies. If you snore, pray for yourself. Remember, smiles are free, and laughter is contagious.
We all have limited time. But when it comes to spending it with those we hold dearest, we might have even less. Remember, cherish your relationships with loved ones.
People are like pretzels — they come in different shapes and sizes and are baked in various ways. Their diversity adds appeal and zest. Remember, savor all the flavors of life.
The path you choose is yours alone. No one can walk it for you so do what makes you happy and be who you want to be. Remember, give importance to yourself.
Life is full of unexpected curves, bumps, and even dead ends. It may not go according to plan so be flexible and learn to adapt. Remember, inside a box of Cracker Jacks is a surprise.
There is no one below you and no one above you. Stop comparing yourself to someone and anyone. Remember, you are a masterpiece.
