Simple Rules

I love simple "rules" that can be applied in any situation. 

Peter McWilliams, author of the book Life 101, says "Pain (any pain--emotional, physical, mental) has a message. The information it has about our life can be remarkably specific, but it usually falls into one of two categories: "We would be more alive if we did more of this," and, "Life would be more lovely if we did less of that." Once we get the pain's message, and follow its advice, the pain goes away."

The 10 Commandments are great, but no one can comply all the time.....though they are lofty aspirations.  Simple things, like "love others".  If we all did that, imagine what this world would be like.  The book of Proverbs is full of these simple solutions to life.  Sometimes, you'll see history repeat itself and come up with a few words that sum it up. 

So, here are a few that I have found to be applicable ALL THE TIME and help life be more lovely with less pain.

1.) Proverbs 3:7, "Do not be wise in your own eyes".  No explanation needed here.

2.) Be careful with words.  Keep the main thing, the main thing. Say what you mean,
     and mean what you say. 
          Words are powerful and carry a lot of weight.  If your word cannot be trusted, what can be 
          trusted about you?  Communication problems in relationships occur when people beat around
          the bush, try to make it feel good, do not say what is on their heart, or say words that are not in
          their soul. 

3.) Again: words, words, words!  "Those who choose murmuring will live their lives in the wilderness", by author James MacDonald.  Read the book, "Lord, Change My Attitude" and find out what the wilderness attitudes are and replacement them with "promised land" attitudes!  Examples: Replace a  complaining attitude with an attitude of thankfulness; or Replace a critical attitude with a loving attitude.  These are not simple, quick fixes but if you try - you will be a much happier person!

I suppose I could go on, but these are the things I want to dwell on and try to live out each and every day. 

And just to add my own flair, (because, really, I am so not even close to the first 3 items listed) I'll leave this final word.  This ESPECIALLY applies to women, but really I guess it could apply anywhere. 

If someone says they are an asshole, believe them.