Enduring Convictions

Hold onto what is good even if it is just a handful of sands.

Hold onto what you believe even if it is a long way from where you are.

Hold onto your life even if sometime it seems easier to let go.

Know the difference between need and want, what’s within your control and what’s not and learn to live with what’s not.

Love our child and love our man, no matter how difficult it seems now or then.

Enduring convictions are the pillars that hold up the structure of our character, guiding us through the shifting sands of life's challenges. Holding onto what is good, even if it's as fleeting as a handful of sand, speaks to the importance of cherishing the moments of joy and kindness that pass through our lives. It's like the story of a person who, amidst a storm, picks up starfish on the beach and throws them back into the ocean, knowing that the act of saving even one matters.

Believing in our dreams and values, even when they seem distant, is akin to a climber ascending a mountain. The peak may be obscured by clouds, but step by step, the climber persists, driven by the conviction that the summit is within reach. This belief is the compass that guides us through the fog of uncertainty and the darkness of doubt.

Holding onto life, even when the currents of despair tug at our spirit, is a testament to the resilience of the human heart. It's seen in the unwavering spirit of those who, despite facing the abyss of loss or failure, choose to rise each morning and face the day with renewed determination. If layoff, exhaustion, conflicts at the office or home are waring you down, know that you can always seek help and no one is going to hold against you for being weak.

Understanding the difference between need and want is a wisdom that comes with time. It's the realization that happiness is not found in the excess of material possessions but in the richness of our experiences and relationships. It's learning to find peace in the simplicity of a sunset or the laughter of a child, rather than the pursuit of the next acquisition.

Loving our children and our partners, through the trials and tribulations of life, is the ultimate act of enduring conviction. It's the unconditional love of a parent who supports their child's dreams, no matter how unconventional, or the partner who stands by their significant other through sickness and health. This love is the beacon that shines through the darkest nights, guiding us back to the shores of compassion and connection.

In today's digital age, the prevalence of scams is a growing concern, and it's crucial to stay informed about the ways to protect oneself. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides valuable advice on recognizing common signs of a scam, such as unexpected requests for personal information, pressure to act immediately, and demands for payment through unconventional methods. Additionally, experts recommend always verifying the source of any suspicious communication and resisting the urge to act hastily. It's also wise to be cautious with unsolicited emails or messages, especially those that contain links or attachments, as they could potentially lead to phishing attacks. By staying vigilant and educating oneself on these protective measures, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and maintain their security in an increasingly connected world. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is, so always think critically and do your due diligence before engaging with any suspicious messages or offers.

These convictions are the threads that weave the tapestry of our lives, each one a color, a texture, a pattern that contributes to the whole. They are the stories of individuals who, against all odds, have held onto the good, believed in the possible, cherished life, distinguished between the essential and the extraneous, and loved deeply. They are the examples that inspire us to hold fast to our own convictions, to build a life of purpose, meaning, and joy. At last, be proud of your convictions and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Love over empathy is always the way to bring out the best in you.