Universal Laws

There are some things (like sports) that I know nothing about. But I am wise in the ways that patterns and themes are woven into the tapestry of life. Even as a child I paid close attention to the causes and effects of life choices and events. There is still more to learn and I am propelled to keep going. In the meantime, here is my take on the Universal Laws which govern us all. When I run my life on these principles things go a lot smoother.

1. No one has a crystal ball. Well, maybe someone does but it doesn’t work. So we never know what life will bring. The only guarantee is change.

2. Even though you don’t know what will happen (man plans and God laughs) it’s a really good idea to prepare for the next phase of life now.

3. A man’s character seals his fate.

4. My greatest strength is my greatest weakness. And, so is yours.

5. The worst thing that happens is often the best thing. But, most of us cannot see it in the moment.

6. Stay away from crazies and people who are pushed to the edge. They are usually living in survival mode. And, someone in survival mode cannot be trusted to act rationally.

7. Seek to serve the greater good – within reason.

8. Nurture your tribe. Human beings are tribal. Ultimately your tribe is the most important thing you have.

9. Life is an unfolding. Everything is temporary. The good, the bad, it’s all temporary. So enjoy the good while you have it and know that the bad will pass soon enough.

10. Human beings soothe in pairs so its important to have a primary relationship. But, it’s better to have no partner than the wrong partner because you are still free to seek out the comfort of another.

11. Nothing changes. Everything changes. An elm tree will never be an oak tree. But, depending on the nourishment it receives, an elm tree will either grow and evolve or wither and die. Every year it looks different, but it’s still an elm tree. People are the same way.

12. There is no emotion attached to an intuitive message. Listen to your intuition. No one ever says I trusted my inner knowing and it was wrong. But, they do say I didn’t trust my intuition and I could kick myself now.

13. Men and women are different animals. Culturally, physically, and psychologically we are different. Learn all you can about connecting to the other species; we have to share the planet together.

14. Under every human conflict someone feels dismissed, discounted, disenfranchised, or disrespected. When you are embroiled in conflict, figure out what you did to give someone else the impression that you have devalued them. And, then try to explain your perspective.

15. Secret deals don’t work. Deals that live in your head, instead of being voiced and agreed upon, only set you up for disappointment.

16. There is a strong connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Pay attention to all three. Your body is the temple for your soul. And, your home is the temple for your body. Treat them accordingly.

17. Life stretches ahead of us – and we meander along the path. And then, one day, we wake up and realize there is much more behind us than there is in front of us. And, that sucks. But, again, that is the way IT is.

18. Honor yourself. You are all you have. If you don’t like the way something is going, change it. That means you make a plan and take the necessary actions.

19. Timing is everything. But, I have no way to make sure you (or I) get it right. Ask for guidance through prayer or otherwise, then shut up and listen.

20. Money means very little. Just live like there is enough money for what you want and need and there will be.

21. Sometimes just say goodbye. Sometimes stay and work it out. When emotion gets involved it’s often difficult to know which is which. Pray, then shut-up and listen.

22. Some things are simply unknown. For instance, no one really knows what happens when we die. That’s OK because we really don’t need to know everything. There are mysteries. That’s just the way IT is. (On the other hand, if you feel that you need to have an answer because the unknown causes you anxiety that’s OK too. You can choose any of the myths that are out there in the current pool.)

23. Every path can lead you to the answer and every path can take you away from the answer.

24. Things I can do and see for others, I often cannot do and see for myself. And, others can see and do things for and about me that I cannot do on my own. So, it’s wise to surround oneself with wise people; they bring clarity and a reality test. But, everyone – even those who are not so wise - has something to teach me. And, no one can have too many friends.

25. Life is full of give and take. My world revolves around me. Your world revolves around you. So, if I want something from you, I better figure out what’s in it for you. Altruism is rare, if it exists at all. Want something? Figure out what can you give in trade. But, good living is not about a balance sheet. It requires giving as an investment that may or may not pay dividends latter on.

This list is a work in progress. Like me.

God, Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and Wisdom to know the difference.

Happy trails, Elinor