That cuts across the board. Black people, white people, Asian people, Hispanic people. I've been meeting the most interesting people of all types. Now that I'm not so rushed, I take a few minutes to engage them in conversation. A guy might be working on the road, collecting garbage, driving a truck or running his own business. A couple of days ago I met a Black guy who operates heavy equipment. I was in a gas station that has the best chicken and potatoes in Florida. The tables were full, but I was sitting alone. He asked if I minded if he sat there. I said, "of course, welcome!". We sat together for lunch and laughed about life. I left with a new friend.
This is my new approach in life. Now that I've been fortunate enough to retire early, I take all my life experiences and look at a person with understanding rather than judgement. Life is beautiful, if you only let it be so. Show everyone courtesy. Hold the door open. Address people with genuine respect.
Yes, 20% may be *******s. But how many times have I been in that 20% myself? If someone is negative, I just avoid them. Someone gets angry driving? I smile and say "sorry", even if it's the other guy's fault.
At home, I have an adopted 9 year old brown Thai girl who is blooming in every imaginable way. A great student and an amazing artist. The ugly things in the outside world disappear behind our property's gate. They are replaced with the delighted squeals of my little girl beating me at basketball. My wife is cooking over charcoal and joining us in a game of basketball 'horse". Our cats are rubbing against our legs.
I resolve to teach my child strength and understanding. Yes, I must make her street smart. But the focus is on the positive and the beautiful. Most people are exactly the same way, if you will give them a chance.
This is my new approach in life. Now that I've been fortunate enough to retire early, I take all my life experiences and look at a person with understanding rather than judgement. Life is beautiful, if you only let it be so. Show everyone courtesy. Hold the door open. Address people with genuine respect.
Yes, 20% may be *******s. But how many times have I been in that 20% myself? If someone is negative, I just avoid them. Someone gets angry driving? I smile and say "sorry", even if it's the other guy's fault.
At home, I have an adopted 9 year old brown Thai girl who is blooming in every imaginable way. A great student and an amazing artist. The ugly things in the outside world disappear behind our property's gate. They are replaced with the delighted squeals of my little girl beating me at basketball. My wife is cooking over charcoal and joining us in a game of basketball 'horse". Our cats are rubbing against our legs.
I resolve to teach my child strength and understanding. Yes, I must make her street smart. But the focus is on the positive and the beautiful. Most people are exactly the same way, if you will give them a chance.
Willy Wanker
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