make new friends and keep the old

On Facebook today someone posted this, which I liked:

It is chance moments which control our fate. Believe this vigorously as you stumble about in the darkness of this life. Walk with love and speak with care while thinking only the brightest of thoughts so that you may effect the future in the most positive of ways.

Mostly, I like the positive message. That we shouldn't let ourselves get bogged down in the dark mucky potential that we all have to be sad, depressed, angry, bitter, hurtful, hateful. Instead, tap the other capacity that we have of giving, understanding, love. Actively attempt to think joy, spread happiness, pay it forward, be the bigger person, work things out, forgive, compliment, lift up those around us and thus be lifted up ourselves. Let things go. Understand other people's perspectives. Trust. Be honest, but gently so. Give more than you expect to receive in return.

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."
-Plato

In less didactic news, 20 Worst Parenting Fails Caught on Camera