The Laws Of the Lighthouse

The greatest day of lists is still New Year's Day. And the number one list is the list I call the Laws of the Lighthouse.

The Laws of the Lighthouse contain more than good ideas, personal preferences, and honest opinions. They are God-given, time-tested truths that define the way you should navigate your life. Observe them and enjoy secure passage. Ignore them and crash against the ragged rocks of reality.

The wise captain shifts the direction of his craft according to the signal of the lighthouse. A wise person does the same.

Herewith, then, are the lights I look for and the signals I heed:

- Love God more than you fear hell.

- Once a week, let a child take you on a walk.

- Make major decisions in a cemetery.

- When no one is watching, live as if someone is.

- Succeed at home first.

- Don't spend tomorrow's money today.

- Pray twice as much as you fret.

- Listen twice as much as you speak.

- Only harbor a grudge when God does.

- Never outgrow your love of sunsets.

- Treat people like angels; you will meet some and help make some.

- 'Tis wiser to err on the side of generosity than on the side of scrutiny.

- God has forgiven you; you'd be wise to do the same.

- When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart.

- Toot your own horn and the notes will be flat.

- Don't feel guilty for God's goodness.

- The book of life is lived in chapters, so know your page number.

- Never let the important be the victim of the trivial.

- Live your liturgy.

To sum it all up:
Approach life like a voyage on a schooner. Enjoy the view. Explore the vessel. Make friends with the captain. Fish a little. And only get off the boat when you get home.