All the Joy I Can Wish

“I wish you all the joy I can wish.”

—William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice, Act II, Scene 2

Boys jumping in a field

Image by Robert Collins on Unsplash

With the holiday season upon us, and the new year just ahead, Shakespeare’s wish feels quite appropriate.

Take some real time to reflect on the people, things, and experiences that bring you joy and reach out to those you love with extra hugs and the kind words we often neglect.

EXERCISE:

How and where can you share Shakespeare’s wish of joy throughout your communities this holiday season, and all year long?

Ring out the false ring in the true

“Ring out the false, ring in the true.”

-Alfred Lord Tennyson, 19th Century Poet Laureate of Great Britain

Image from Flickr by TechSavi

It’s such a cliche to say “Ring out the Old and Ring in the New!” this time of year.

Tennyson’s twist has considerable merit if we all wish to lead richer and more rewarding lives.

Lies, deceit, and general falsehoods diminish, deflate, and demoralize our lives, leaving us empty and defeated.

Truth, on the other hand, sets us free to experience lives of integrity, character, and dignity, where communities, families, and organizations can blossom.

EXERCISE:

In what personal or professional areas would ringing out the false and ringing in the true make the biggest difference for you in 2017?