Just for Today

      One of our resolves for 2017 is to clear the cave of all the random files, papers, and notes that have accumulated over the years despite our best efforts to the contrary.
   Tucked in a book was a note I knew at first glance was from my grandmother, Erin Elizabeth Harrison Black, because the "w" and "h" key on her Royal Upright were clogged with ink from heavy use. Her voice reached out across the years to touch on something I wrote last week about "being a better person."

   Just for today I will live through the next 12 hours and not tackle my whole life's problems at once.
   Just for today I will improve my mind. I will read something that will require effort, thought, and concentration.
   Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look my best, speak in a well modulated voice, be courteous, and considerate.
   Just for today I will not find fault with friends, relatives, or colleagues. I will not try to change or improve anyone, but myself.
   Just for today I will have a program. I might not follow it exactly, but I will have it. I will save myself from two enemies - hurry and indecision.
   Just for today I will exercise my character in three ways. I will do a good turn and keep it a secret. If anyone finds out, it won't count.
   Just for today I will do two things I don't want to do, just for the exercise.
   Just for today I will be unafraid. Especially will I be unafraid to enjoy what is beautiful and believe that as I give to the world, the world will give to me.

   At this late date I don't know if she wrote it for the Methodist Church Bulletin, but it reads and sounds like her. She may have found it somewhere and sent it on to me. I have no idea, but I remember an occasion when I was doing something that did not meet her standard of public behavior.
   She placed her hand on my shoulder, smiled at someone while she whispered to me, "Remember who you are and mind your manners." Today when I do or say something I know would not meet her approval I can still feel her thumb digging into my back just daring me to do anything, but smile.
   Her homily is an excellent guide for living. Now all I have to so is find the courage and strength to attempt to take life one day at a time.