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 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, 

 to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. 

This is to have succeeded.


Ralph Emerson