Today is the beginning of a new day so start it
by knowing that you have been given this day
to use as you will and know that what you do today
is important because you are exchanging
a day of your life for it.

Life is not about expecting, hoping and wishing,
it is about doing, being and becoming
and the choices you have made not yesterday but today
so talk happiness, talk love, peace of mind
and talk health.

Forget the mistakes of the past and press on
to greater achievements of the future
believing in yourself and having faith in
your abilities because when tomorrow comes
this day will be gone forever and what we
have left behind, be it love or poetry
all we can do is hope that others
learned from us.

Come out from behind the clouds and shine
and decide that you will not live an unlived life
and promise yourself to be so strong
that nothing can disturb your peace of mind
while you think only the best
and expect only the best.

Be aware of the treasure that you are
and don't lose sight of the beauty
that surrounds you while in your quest
for some rare and perfect tomorrow.

Don't wish me happiness, just wish me
courage, strength and a sense of humor
knowing that I need them all
to go on living.

The real test of courage is not to die
but to go on living knowing that courage
comes first and that reality follows courage,
truthfulness follows courage, so be courageous
and everything will fall into place
and don't overestimate the competition
or underestimate yourself because
you are better than you think.           Jon York      2013