Joe Cool's "Lessons of Life"

In all things there are teachers and there are students, but simply believing that we are the student does not necessarily make it so. like it or not, sometimes we become the teacher. Therefore do not solely ask what there is to learn from this lesson or from that incident; instead, open all the senses wide, look around, and ask what it is that we may help teach, and how to best present it without the involvement of ego. In this simple and humble way we may help others with their individual spiritual development and at the same time promote our own as well.

Therefore listen, watch, and learn from everyone and everything, for lessons are learned not only from the greatest master, but from the humblest student as well.

Always remember that we can't always have our own way. Likewise, we don't always receive what we want, but we do always get what we ask for, so be careful of what you request!

It matters not how others treat us, ultimately what really counts is how we treat them; remember that life is a circle, and you reall do get back whatever you put out. Moreover, you'll see it when you believe it, and not until!

Remember too, that discipline imposed from without is like holding a substance inside a container of ice. When the ice finally melts, that inside will loose the imposed shape and flow randomly all about. However, real internal strength needs no external force or containment. It in itself will maintain it's own self-integrity without outside force. Therefore do not continually force others into a rigid mold or set of rules; rather guide them into self-discovery of the wonder of self-imposed discipline and control. Then they will find for themselves the quiet, powerful, and peaceful inner strength that dwells deep within, and it will flow out into all aspects of their lives, filling them with compassion, love, and strength.

Dedicated to my sister Chrissy; may you forever Rest in Peace.