My Creed
I’m not sure why—maybe it is the increasing years and the inevitable separation from friends in distance and time—but I’ve been trying to reconnect with people who have mattered to me in the past. Back in 2013, I wrote a post about “The Last Great Day.” I have, once again, been dwelling on past friendships, and wanting to be sure people know how much they have mattered to me, even now. I read a meme today that started me thinking about what might be my life’s creed, and this is what I would like it to be.
I want there to be hearts that beat a little lighter just knowing I exist and there are smiles that bloom when I cross their thoughts. I want my presence to bring a little warmth, ease, and joy to others’ lives. Friendship, to me, is a sacred bond, a quiet promise to be the reason someone feels seen and valued. I hold onto the knowledge that my existence makes a difference, and in turn, I strive to be someone worth remembering.
I hold close to the belief that every action, every word, and every small gesture matters as if each moment is woven into the fabric of a story that will last forever. I want integrity as my compass, and I choose to act with the awareness that the ripples of my choices extend far beyond me. I promise to honor those whose lives I touch and to live in such a way that my presence enriches the world, now and always.
Embracing this creed means embracing a life of purpose and connection, where every moment holds the potential to uplift others and leave a positive mark on the world. I’m hardly perfect in this work, but knowing that there are people whose lives are brightened by my presence fills me with a profound sense of responsibility and gratitude. It reminds me that I am never alone, that I am part of something larger—a network of kindness, empathy, and shared experiences. This awareness becomes a source of strength on difficult days and a reason to share my joy on the good ones.
Living with the knowledge that my actions are like threads woven into the tapestry of time inspires me to be intentional. It encourages me to approach each day with compassion, knowing that even the smallest act—a kind word, a genuine smile—can ripple through someone’s day, altering its course for the better. It pushes me to show up as my most authentic self, not for recognition, but because every choice contributes to the world I hope to see: one where people feel valued and cared for, where friendships run deep, and where integrity is the foundation of every interaction.
The joy I give returns to me in ways I never expected—a sense of fulfillment, a deeper appreciation for the beauty in others, and the peace that comes from knowing I am living with intention.
Imagine a world where each of us embraced this perspective—where we all sought to bring a little light into each other’s lives and treated every moment as an opportunity to live with integrity. Such a world would be filled with people who truly see and appreciate one another. It would be a place where empathy flourishes, small acts of kindness build up into a vast ocean of good, and everyone is empowered to be their best selves because they know they matter.
In this way, my creed is not just a guide for my journey but a vision for a kinder, more connected world. It is a reminder that the small, everyday moments—the smiles, the encouragement, the effort to do what’s right—are the foundation for a better, more compassionate world. And by living this creed, I hope to be one small part of that change, knowing that the world is just a little better because I chose to care.
This post is dedicated to Lay, Jim, Robert, Jeff, Rob, Davis, Robert, Robbie, Sam, Mickey, Sean, Jeff, Richard, Joe, Jeff, Michael, Mike, Glenda, Stan, Kevin, Rick, Mike, Evie, Tommy, Earle, Ann, Rob, Mac, Perry, Angel, and so very many others. People who made my world just a little better because they chose to care about me.
