A Renewal (of sorts)

I have a new-found friend in the Islamic world. (He calls me "uncle" which I presume is a salutation of respect & honor.) As a devout Muslim, he prays five times each day. I told him I'm a non-believer (though neither an atheist nor agnostic), yet I reflect on my values, beliefs, and aspirations several times a day, too.

I last shared my daily affirmation, which I now refer to as a personal reflection — part secular prayer, part non-mystical meditation, and part positive visualization and self-talk — back in January 2011. I share it again today, with only the minor revisions of the past nine months, as a reminder for myself and as food for thought for others.

Every day is a treasure to cherish and to live mindfully to its fullest. I'm thankful for the endless opportunities and capabilities that are my good fortune, and for each and every new day I awaken to. I resolve to make wise use of this abundance to enrich my life — spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, physically, and financially — and then to share my blessings to benefit the world around me and the people I love. I will strive to be balanced, focused, calm, kind, and caring; and to be forthright, tactful, and constructive in fostering decency and justice through my actions. These blessings are mine to nurture and to freely share. I know I can make a positive contribution to peace and prosperity in the world.

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