If I have freedom in my life,

When a cow decides to stop nursing her calf, she isn't rejecting it. She knows it's time for the calf to be on its own.

Although the calf might feel rejected and puzzled at first, it soon adapts to its new independence and freedom. 

When we feel rejected, it's useful to remember that whatever has caused us to feel this way might have nothing to do with us.

It might be a reflection of what's happening with someone else, or just the end of a natural stage in life, as with the calf. 

When we understand that others' actions toward us come from their own feelings, and that we don't cause their feelings any more than they control ours, we can free ourselves from a little bit of fear and self-hate. 

We can see what seems to be rejection as an open door, with our freedom on the other side.

It's not what we do for a job that counts, it's how we do it.

It's not what our chores at home might be, it's how we do them.

And it's not what grades we get in school, but rather how hard we try.

Doing our best, whether it's making a bed, writing a report, or listening to a friend tell about an experience gives us a good feeling about ourselves. 

Each of us is special to one another.

 And we are special to this very moment.

Because what is past can't be repeated, let's remember to enjoy every moment as it comes.

Let's pay close attention to each person, each activity that we encounter today. 

It's not what we do today, but how we do it that counts.

They lived long, healthy lives and almost never were sick -- precisely because they knew how important the natural elements were. 

When we feel depressed or nervous, nature is a good listener.

We can take a walk in the sun, listen to the small birds, or twigs cracking under our feet, or simply the sound of our shoes on the pavement.

We don't need to live in teepees to follow the Indians' example today.

But getting out in the sunshine and fresh air every day, even on really cold days, rejuvenates us.

Sunlight is healing, fresh air cleanses our lungs and brings more oxygen to the blood and brain.

When we think enough of ourselves to take a walk when we need it, even that small amount of self-consideration is also healing.