Words from those much wiser than I.

I started reading this book about 2 years ago (my true procrastinator colors begin to show); I found it very difficult to get past the first chapter I didn't find myself anticipating what came next. So instead of reading on I put the book away and moved on to the next one. On my last trip to California while searching for reading material to take on the 2 hour plane ride, I came upon Without Reservations by Alice Steinbach, which US Weekly states is "A rich account of one woman's journey thorugh Europe and into the self." and was determined to finish reading this book once and for all. To my suprise: I love it. Once I pushed past Chapter 1 I was completely envoloped with Alice's encounters, and humourouss words. Along the way I jotted downs passages from the literature I most enjoyed, words that made me remember my own past experiences, feelings. This is what I look for every time I start reading a new book, therefore I am going to share Without Reservations with you. Enjoy:

Advice from Wendell Berry for 'those about to enter the wilderness' (Wendell Berry was a naturalist):

"Always in the big woods when you leave familiar ground and step off alone into a new place there will be, along with the feelings of curiosity and excitement, a little nagging of dread. it is the ancient fear of the Unknown, and it is your first bond with the wilderness you are going into."

I am not a naturalist. I attempted to plant an herb garden (in my attempt to become a wonderful cook) I purchased sage, rosemary, cilantro and chili's plants from the flea market. I went as far as to plant my fresh herbs in the designated "garden" in my back yard. Yet, I must have forgotten that in order for any plant or herb to grow you must WATER it. I attempted (half assed) and failed. Still, when I read this passage I did not envision myself in the middle of the wilderness.

The Charlie Schulz Philosophy 

(This is marvelous!! Scroll through slowly and read carefully to receive and enjoy full effect)

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip.

You don't have to actually answer the questions.Just ponder on them.

Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.

3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.

4 Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners. 

 The point is, none of us remembers the headliners of yesterday.

These are no second-rate achievers.

They are the best in their fields.

But the applause dies..

Awards tarnish.

Achievements are forgotten.

Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

 Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!

5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:

The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..

the most money...or the most awards.

They simply are the ones who care the most

Pass this on to those people who have made a difference in your life, like I did.

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia!'

''Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!"