Fifty things I learned on my 50th birthday adventure
Updated: Dec 8, 2021
Laughter is contagious
Joy is an attitude we choose
Fear should never govern decision making
Gratitude breeds a content spirit
Community is the foundation for successful child rearing
True connection can happen when we least expect it
Guarding your heart suffocates true love
Respect for what is different, unique and sometimes uncomfortable is what promotes opportunities for real change, growth and learning
Compassion is universal
Kindness costs nothing
Boredom breeds innovation
Solutions are often found in the presence of silent reflection - learn to be still
Sunsets and sunrises are reminders that the beginning and end of each day are opportunities for renewal
Play should not be exclusive to children
Personal value is defined by what we give not what we receive
A soft pillow is a luxury not a human right
A cold shower is better than no shower
Soap is a luxury
Salt makes everything taste good
Gentle touch is louder than any combination of words
A gentle breeze on a hot day is a gift from the universe
Mango trees provide sweet fruit and shade
All accomplishments should be passionately celebrated - all failures are opportunities to learn
Death should not be feared
Only the privileged have time to worry
Friendship is forged through trust
A smile transcends all languages
Caution is taught
Curiosity should always be encouraged
Faith and religion are not the same
Music is a universal language
Harmony is a tapestry of differences that blend together to create unity
Nature is the most beautiful of all artistic masterpieces
Wildlife should never be contained
Dancing is an expression of the heart
Water is a life-giving resource
Money does not buy happiness
Corruption happens in the presence of desperation
Power perpetuates a selfish heart
Selflessness is more difficult for the rich than the poor
Anxiety and anger serve no one well
Peace is a state of mind not an emotion
Listening affords learning and learning affords progress
Extreme poverty breeds extreme love and community
Formal education is not superior to the education of life
Friendship heals
Taking risks builds character
Luck is usually founded in hard work
Hard work is never the wrong decision
True, unconditional love is rare and the universal goal of every person
