Esther Borgman Smith

Esther Borgman Smith certainly doesn't think she is a heroine, but the lessons she has imparted to her family and friends belie her modesty. She has touched many lives in many ways. The lessons I've learned from her over the years are now the very ones I want for my children. These gifts have cost very little in terms of money and yet, have had a profound effect on my life. Thanks, Mom, for teaching me these things:

Have faith. Life is not without pain. But if you maintain a positive attitude that things will work out, in the end, they generally will.

Read. It is the window to the world and what is happening around you. You cannot exist in a vacuum, so keep up on current events.

If you don't know, find out. Try to learn something new every day. Do not become arrogant with your knowledge, however. Even those with no formal education have lessons to teach.

Keep music in your life. It will continue to be a source of joy.

Volunteer. Helping others gives you a sense of accomplishment and promotes worthy causes.

Take time for friends. They are the spice that keeps life interesting. Remember that to make friends, you have to be a friend.

Enjoy simple pleasures. Fresh pumpkin pie, lemonade on the porch on a hot summer day, or a game of Scrabble around the dining room table create memories that will not soon be forgotten.

Learn from previous generations. Share with younger generations. What we know and who we know will change over time. The values we hold most dear are timeless.

Have hobbies. Hobbies provide stress relief when life is hectic and fill idle time when you grow old.

Have a sense of humor. Laughter is truly the best medicine.

Love lots. You can never love enough. Take time daily to tell those dearest to you how much you love them. "Of all things, these three abide—faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." (I Corinthians 13:13)

Submitted on 9/94