Accept responsibility for your own actions. Trying to pass the buck will get you sacked.

Believe you have what it takes to make the world a better place.

Cast your cares on your creator. Anxieties that hold you hostage rob your peace of mind.

Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

Exercise regularly. Cardiovascular activity clears the mind and contributes to restful sleep.

Fuel your body with healthy food. If you want to live a long time, eat more fruit and vegetables.

Give to charitable causes. You’ll feel good about yourself when you share with others.

Hang on when you feel like letting go. Perseverance is the price tag for realizing the dreams God has planted in your heart.

Invest your money. Deferring gratification compounds your interest at the bank and in what really matters.

Just do it! Doing today what shouldn’t be left for tomorrow produces yesterdays devoid of regret.

Keep short accounts with others. Taking the initiative to resolve disagreements reduces stress.

Lick an ice cream cone instead of eating it. Savoring life’s little pleasures makes them last longer.

Mind your own business. Be grateful you’re not everyone’s judge.

Never say never. When tempted to hold airtight convictions, leave space for breathing room.

Open your eyes to the wonders around you. It was Browning who said, “Earth is crammed with heaven and every common bush afire with God. But only he who sees takes off his shoes. The rest sit round and pluck blackberries.”

Preach what you practice. Don’t keep your passions to yourself.

Question easy answers. The world is filled with bumper sticker platitudes that only stick to the chrome of a car.

Read for fun. There’s more to life than technical books that prepare you for degrees or deadlines. Lose yourself in the pages of poetry or fiction.

Seek the ultimate meaning of life. The great thinkers of history invite you to think with your soul.

Talk to strangers. Some things you learned in kindergarten need to be unlearned. People you haven’t yet met hold keys to doors of opportunity currently locked.

Unleash your imagination. Let your creative mind run free. Daydreaming isn’t just for kids.

Value each day. The present is a gift. “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.”

Waste time. Wasting time isn’t the unpardonable sin. If you play hard, you’ll work better.

X-amine your motives. Ask yourself what Rotarians do: Is it the truth? Is it fair and beneficial to all concerned? Will it build goodwill?

Yearn for a kingdom that’s out of this world. Jesus said it best: “Seek the kingdom of God above all else … He will give you everything you need.”

Zip it! When a friend shares something in confidence, keep your mouth shut. Trustworthiness is a priceless virtue.

Contact Mercer Island pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos at AwesomeRev@aol.com.