We received a lot of positive feedback on the Publishers Letter in November, so I thought I would just do a little continuation with a few personal comments.

Honesty is so important. It is the link to integrity, friendship, relationships and self. It is not always easy and is sometimes a challenge, but like all of life, if we pay attention, understand we are human, stay open and be willing to admit our shortcomings, the rewards are priceless.

Interpersonal relationships. Building this skill pays back in life, in business, in parenting, in everything human. We should be teaching it in our schools, from day one to college graduation. Perfecting it is priceless. 

The value of our health. This really hits home over time. From invincible as a teen to vulnerable as a senior—the value of our decisions to our health becomes evident.

Gratitude is a way of life. The dividends this practice brings are beyond description. See the good.

Forgiveness rocks—for both sides. What a release! Forgiveness is a wonderful and essential component of good mental health.

We all have flaws. Learning to accept ourselves and others is where the love lies. No one said it was going to be easy.

Have fun. Kids get it. We should have more fun in our lives. Be a kid for a day. Let go of the normal—you’ll be amazed at how normal “not being normal” can feel. It’s priceless.

I’m not as smart as I think. Nothing more needs to be written on this.

People that love know things. Listen to them.

Invest in people currency. When we are kind, caring, loving, empathetic, honest, real, a good friend—it always returns in ways we cannot measure, though not always from the direction you expect.

Make good memories. Healthy relationships with friends, family and loved ones mean you get rewarded with a life filled with good vibrations. This makes for a much easier life and a ready collection of memories to lift your spirits every day.

Parenting is hard. The responsibility of parenting is preparing our children for the world. Allowing them to stand by themselves as they learn to be self-sufficient and ready to take their place in life is the hardest job I have ever had or will have (I still have a teen at home).

Do more of what feels good to your soul. Dance more. Smile more. Live more. Love more.

May your holidays be filled with joy, and may 2019 bring all you desire.

In peace, love and laughter,

Joe Dunne, Publisher