ALL GROWN UP-KIND OF.....

Be true to yourself
Help others
Make each day a masterpiece
Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible
Make friendship a fine art
Build a shelter against a rainy day
Pray for guidance and forgiveness
Give thanks for your many blessings

I received this through my email and it made me to stop and think and I thought it would be worth sharing. There was a time in my life when I didn't adhere to any of those things and my life was miserable, though I didn't know it at the time. I was a heavy smoker and a heavier drinker and through the grace of God I no longer smoke or drink. Coming up on 13 years since I had my final and last drink and 7 years since I smoked. I've come a long way I feel.
My son-in-laws brother has just died from an overdose of drugs and when I hear of someone dying this tragic way always makes me think that it could have been me many years ago.Fortunatly I had a family that loved and cared for me very much which did help but I had to learn the hard way. I could have easily gone the way of Dougs' brother. Thankfully I grew up a little.
I feel very blessed in my life though I may not show it. I'm not one to brag or gloat over my accomplishments but I do know that without the support I receive from my family and my Higher Power I wouldn't be here today.
I'm not fully grown yet as I have a lot of kid in me but it's the kid in me that doesn't need artifical highs. I have a very loving and caring family and I have come close to my God who I know is always watching out for me.
My thoughts and prayers are for Carl Jr. as he made a mistake, a big mistake. It cost him his life which he cannot recover from. The family grieves and I would hope his loved ones would learn from this and not let his death be in vain.