As this new year begins I find myself reflecting on truths that guide my life. Many I've learned by making mistakes. Others I’ve gleaned from watching those around me. The following are some of these truths I want to share with you.  

Always tell the truth. Granted, lies provide a quick escape but what you escape to is usually worse than what you escape from.

  

Look for value in those with whom you disagree. Like-minded people will stroke your ego but those with whom you disagree can lead you to new truth.  

When you reject a prejudiced person you become a prejudiced person. Prejudice is rarely eradicated by pointing it out in others. Prejudice is usually purged by discovering it in yourself then smothering it in others with love.  

There are few faults bigger than looking for the faults of others.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, but don’t keep score. If others treat you wrongly they’ve already lost the game.  

Respect all life because life is scared. No person is cheap, no animal expendable and every earthly landscape is a precious gift of God.  

You have all you need if you have faith, family and friends. Everything else is fluff. With faith, family and friends you can survive whatever you face. Without them, life’s smallest issues will bring defeat.  

Religion without love is not religion. It’s merely pious form without spiritual meaning. 

Some things are worth fighting for. Most are not. Be willing to die for those that are and to tolerate those that aren’t.  

Never suppress laughter or tears for by them the soul breathes.  

The most important word in the English language is “relationship,” and love is the fuel that keeps it alive.   

Few words hold more power than, “I was wrong.” Few words reveal more wisdom than, “I don’t know.” Few words show greater strength than, “I need help.”

Happiness is not a product of circumstances. Happiness is a decision. We cannot choose our circumstances but we can choose the attitude with which we face them. 

What you know is never more impressive than who you are. What you have is never more impressive than what you give. What you do is never more impressive than how you love.  

Finally, walk with God, even when you do not understand him. Better is the one who walks with a God he does not understand than the one who walks alone.