Monday, October 13, 2008

Success

Success is defined in many ways from different perspectives. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote one definition I enjoy contemplating. It follows.


"To laugh often and love much;
to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children;
to earn the approbation of honest critics and to 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 have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation;
to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived---
this is to have succeeded."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Happy Birthday to my sweet sister in law, Annette.
She is one who succeeds! You'd think so too!
Love, Rachel

5 comments:

My Petite Maison said...

What a great photo, Rachel!
Happy birthday to Annette, she's got the same birthday as someone special to me. Love the poem ~ thank you.
Happy day!
xoxo~Tracie

Salmagundi said...

That is one of my favorite quotes. Several years ago, I wrote that on a graduation quilt I made. Thanks for reminding me of it. Sally

Anonymous said...

Happy birthday, Annette! I hope it's been a great one!

I love the poem! Thanks for sharing it!

Have a wonderful day!

Love, Esther

sandersfamily said...

Precious picture!

Unknown said...

What a great poem. It's a good reminder!