Thought for the Day

For years I e-mailed my kids a thought for the day. It usually began with a quote that I found enlightening, educational, interesting or very good advice. Then I expounded on it, adding motherly advice to help them. I just ran across one that I had printed and saved (for whatever reason!) I need to send it to all the political candidates and commentators - especially the moderators and commentators! But it is especially good advice for each of us in our everyday lives, too.

"Draw a line that you will not step over - that line means that you will not judge, defame, slander or speak evil of anyone." I added to that quote "Or to anyone." (But I didn't write who said it - shame on me.)
"When we speak anything of evil or defamation, we shall give account thereof in the judgment." (D&C 136:42)
But just biting our tongue isn't the answer. Replace the negative with the positive. "Say the Good word." Speak only good of others - and never withhold the sincere praise or compliments that would build someone else. Praise is more spontaneous when things go right, but it is more precious when things go wrong.
"We shouldn't be a 'belittler' and say bad things about others, but be a 'bebiggler.' My need is not to criticize which tears down, but to build, repair souls and broken hearts. Let your words tend to edify you and others." George Cannon (former Salt Lake Temple President)
In other words, "Have a cookie" - remember the story of the Girl Scout President and the hotel Magnate?
This is a hard habit to cultivate, but one that if learned well and practiced daily will bring MUCH happiness to us individually and to those we work with, be they children, associates or family.
Along those same lines: "Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great ones make you feel that you, too, can become great." Mark Twain
And finally: Many things are opened by mistake, but none so frequently as the mouth. Time and words cannot be recalled. While you are doing all that you must do today - remember to think first about what is going to come out of your mouth and the effect it will have on those who hear it. Make this your best day this week. Love, Mom
Wouldn't it be wonderful if the whole world adopted this advice?