Success

Success
by Ralph Waldo Emmerson
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty; To find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived; This is to have succeeded

I just found this poem a couple of days ago and it really rings true for me. No where in here does it say you have to have XYZ degree, or have the corner office with the high profile job and enormous salary. We are all gulity of getting caught up in the pursuit of being what society deems successful, but most often we are working toward the wrong kind of success. Success isn't how much you make or how many designer purses you have, its being able to love each part of your life, good and bad. It is knowing that when you are betrayed, you can pick yourself back up and go on.

Sucess is making a difference in someone elses life. I must say I am surrounded by some very successful friends. You all know who you are. You have made my life easier and better by being my friend, and we have shared many laughs and tears. I am grateful to have you in my life.

I rememeber having to memorize and be able to recite poems in grade school. Even though I am not 10 anymore, I am going to memorize this one because this says it all.