alive

Take a moment from time to time to remember that you are alive. By the most astounding stroke of luck an infinitesimal portion of all matter in the universe came together to create you and for the tiniest moment in the great span of eternity you have the incomparable privilege to exist.

For endless eons there was no you. Before you know it, you will cease to be again. And in between you have this wonderful opportunity to see and feel and think and do. Whatever else you do with your life, nothing will remotely compare with the incredible accomplishment of having managed to get yourself born. Congratulations. You really are special.

But not that special. There are five billion other people on this planet, everyone of them just as important, just as central to the great scheme of things, as you are. Don't ever make the horrible mistake of thinking yourself more vital and significant than anyone else. Nearly all the people you encounter in life merit your consideration.

Don't ever do anything on principle alone. If you haven't got a better reason for doing something other the principle of the thing, then don't do it.

Don't make the extremely foolish mistake of thinking that winning is everything... Taking part is the main thing. Doing your best is the main thing. There is no shame in not winning. The shame is in not trying to win.

Above all be gracious in defeat.