Some rules for living

1.

Love. It won’t always be easy.

You may find that no-one else

seems to be doing it,

or that you’re not getting any back.

It’s not ideal, but that’s OK.

Be genuine, and keep loving;

everything good depends on it.

2.

Resist evil. There is no shortage,

so whatever you do, don’t add to it.

Turn it on its head

with acts of generosity and peace.

Weep with those who suffer.

3.

Make people welcome.

All kinds of people, not just the ones

who share your background

and understandings.

Get to know strangers, hear their stories

and share yours with them.

4.

Refuse to have enemies.

Don’t expect everyone to like you,

but if people treat you badly or unfairly

don’t make it worse

by treating them the same.

Be patient.

5.

If you must compete with others,

don’t do it by trying to go one-up,

or seeking to accumulate

more than they have.

Outdo them with caring,

create an abundance of harmony,

be more humble.

Bless, rejoice and give

more freely and abundantly

than everybody else.

6.

Serve God in hope,

with perseverance and prayer.

7.

Live recklessly;

with passion and abandon.

© Ken Rookes 2011