I've Learned... by Andy Rooney

(excerpt)

I've learned... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned...That when you're in love, it shows. 

I've learned...That just one person saying to me: "You've made my day!" makes my day.

I've learned...That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned...That being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned...That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned...That life is like a roll of toilet paper.  The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned...That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned...That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned...That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I've learned...That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned...That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned...That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned...That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned...That one should keep words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he/she may have to eat them.

I've learned...That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned...That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned...That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done. ■

Reprinted courtesy of our colleagues At Boyd & Nicholas, Inc.