aTake a Journey Through Life with the Author:
ELDERS’ COUNSEL
I know you’re all grown up, and you don’t want me telling you what to do. I just need you to know I’m telling you anyway.
—Mom, Mrs. A. Newman
My good man, an honest trade is no swindle.
—Dad, Mr. R. Newman
Actions taken out of necessity are governed by no known laws.
—Dad, Mr. R. Newman
LIFE LESSONS
You are not inferior. Feeling inferior requires your consent. Don’t ever give it up.
—John C. Newman
Choices in life will not always be easy. You will always have a choice, but be aware that many of the choices you make will not be correct. Have the courage to stand by them.
—John C. Newman
The only things we are entitled to in life are those we earn.
—John C. Newman
MATRIMONY
Make a pact with your spouse or partner to resolve all quarrels and conflicts before leaving home or going to bed at night. You will never forgive yourself if something happens to either of you, and conflict is the last memory of your beloved.
—John C. Newman
The secret to having a lasting relationship is to listen, respect, trust, and love each other.
—John C. Newman
How to spice up your marriage: Ask your spouse or partner for some seasoning.
—John C. Newman
SUCCESS
Education alone will not ensure success. The ability to employ common sense is essential.
—John C. Newman
The proper attitude is extremely important when it comes to achieving success.
—John C. Newman
Shape your mind and attitude to meet the challenges of the future, and you will have the tools to achieve success in the present.
—John C. Newman
LOVE
Love is unpredictable, complicated, bittersweet, and worth all the headaches.
—John C. Newman
Our most cherished blessing is finding someone to love who will love you back.
—John C. Newman
It is said that love is blind. I suppose it’s because we never see it coming.
—John C. Newman
Individuals in love are one of the most powerful forces in the universe. There is nothing they wouldn’t do to protect their love.
—John C. Newman
HAPPINESS
Know what is essential to you; then you can be true to yourself and find happiness.
—John C. Newman
The adage, “If you want something done right, do it yourself,” is outdated. Pay a professional to do it right and get a receipt. That will make you happy.
—John C. Newman
We all seek happiness; however, we will not all achieve it. The reason for this is relatively simple. It depends on our dedication and what we are willing to do.
—John C. Newman
POEMS DEPICTING LIFE
Our reflection in life’s mirror will always be true
If the person looking back does not recognize you.
The dilemma then becomes: What should we do?
Both the reflection and the person are the same; it’s you.
—John C. Newman
In life, amassing material things can impress.
Achieving fame and fortune can appear to be success.
Yet, we still may not find love or happiness.
—John C. Newman
THE FUTURE: MY OPINIONS
Society’s reluctance to be amenable to opposing points of view is not conducive to ensuring a healthy future.
—John C. Newman
The future and our existence are joined at the hip. Humanity’s mindset must change dramatically if we are expecting the future to be inhabitable and affluent.
—John C. Newman
We are all different, yet so much alike, and the future hinges on our ability to get along.
—John C. Newman
DEFINING TRUE FRIENDSHIP
True friends are a living experience. They become more precious as time goes by. You will enjoy, disagree, grieve, share, argue, and have conflicts with each other, but that will never change your bond or devotion. In our life journey, these genuine individuals will always be there, lending their unwavering support and giving unconditional love.
—John C. Newman
Having true friends can be likened to being given a bouquet of beautiful flowers.
—John C. Newman
If we make one or two true friends in the course of life’s journey, we can consider ourselves blessed.
—John C. Newman