Recipe for a Happy Year

Mike, one of our regulars gave us the following recipe for a happy year.  Thanks Mike!!

Take twelve fine, full-grown months . Select only those which are thoroughly free from all old memories of bitterness, rancor, hate and jealousy. Clean them completely free from every clinging spite. Pick off all specks of pettiness and littleness. In short see that each of these months is freed from all the past so that they are as fresh and clean as when they first came from the great storehouse of time.

Next , cut these months into thirty or thirty-one equal parts. They will keep for only one year, so do not attempt to make up the whole batch at one time. Far too many people spoil the entire lot in this way. Rather, prepare but one day at a time.

Into each day put twelve parts of faith, eleven of patience, ten of courage, nine of work (some people omit this ingredient and so spoil the flavor of the rest), eight of hope, seven of fidelity, six of liberality, five of kindness, four of rest (leaving this out is like leaving the oil out of the salad - don't do it), three of prayer, two of meditation and one part only of well-selected resolution. For spice and sweetening, according to our scruples, add about a teaspoon of good spirits, and a dash of fun, a pinch of folly, a sprinkling of play and a heaping cup of good humor.

Pour love , ad libitium, into the whole and mix with vim and vigor. Cook thoroughly in a fervent heart. Garnish with a few smiles and a sprig of joy. then be sure to serve with quietness, unselfishness and cheerfulness - and a Happy Year is a certainty.

Remember - with a smile and a prayer - twelve new and wonderfully glorious months have been issued in your name to do with as you wish. Father Time has signed your note, so that you have been issued a "credit card" for the entire year!

If you make a mistake , be sure you don't make the same one over again. Laugh at difficulties, and they will soon vanish. Attempt heavier responsibilities, and you will find them growing lighter. Face a bad situation and it will clear up. Tell the truth and find an easier way out. Do an honest-to-goodness day's work every day and reap the rewards. Believe men are honest,and you will find them living up to your expectations. Trust in God each day and He will surprise you with His goodness.