As one of the 'Older Ones' (coming up to 58 this year!!), I offer the following:
Offer the hand of friendship to everyone. Everyone wants to be liked, resoected & loved but many are too wary or shy to make the first move. Don't jump on me those of you who only see the negative side of people, I am well aware that offering the hand of friendship could open up a lot of opportunities for being scammed or taken for a ride, but I only said "OFFER" the hand of friendship - the other person has to pick it up & reciprocate or otherwise the hand gets taken away!!!!
The follow on to this is 'Tell the truth'.
* Explain to people how you feel about everything , what you want & especially what you CAN & CANNOT do.
* If someone annoys you, tell them (but nicely & with simpatico).
* If someone is important to you, tell them. They need it the same as you do.
* Don't pretend to be rich when you are not - that gets you into all sorts of problems.
* Don't pretend to like people or things that you don't like - you will find yourself being drawn into areas you don't want to go!
* Cosider the others actions or point of view, don't discard it out of hand. There may well be a very good reason for their views, actions etc. which you will never know unless you discuss it!
* Smile more, be happy in disposition & be optimistic (although always be prudent in your optimism!!).
* Earn peoples respect rather than their short term friendship.
In my early life I have been too eager to "Keep the peace" & withdraw from confrontation, which has held me back from full development into a full Human Being i.e. confident in myself, my beliefs, my friends etc & quite happy with my own company if my friends are not around for any reason. I tried to please people rather than be firm in my own beliefs - WRONG, you need to know your own beliefs & stick to them. You may not always be right, but you WILL be respected for them. Fortunately some 12 years ago, I met someone who helped me to become the sort of person I want to be. I am now happy & content (although US $50 from everyone who reads this far will not go unnoticed at the bank!!).
Have fun friends & may you find YOUR inner peace. - Grahame.
