for You
AN IRISH BLESSING BY LURA ROTI
W
e recently finished the basement of our 1888 home, and to commemorate the space, friends gave us a framed Irish Blessing. “May you always have walls for the winds, A roof for the rain, Tea beside the fire, Laughter to cheer you, Those you love near you, And all your hearts may desire.” Who could ask for more? I’m a sucker for quotes, blessings, verses – words written with a purpose – I love them. As a teen, I was given a small blank bound notebook and I began collecting quotes. The book fit neatly into the inside pocket of my corduroy FFA jacket, so during my high school years, I took it to every camp, contest and convention. I asked new friends and old to jot down their favorite quote. My favorite quote? I have a few. But the one I think about most, is one my college roommate gave me as a graduation gift. It is inscribed in a paper weight, and it sits on my desk, so it serves as a daily reminder.
36 nest |
KNICK KNACKS OF LIFE
“Good writing is clear thinking made visible.” I still have the quotebook. It’s fun to look through and read the quotes teens in the ‘90s deemed to be their favorite. I really should begin collecting quotes again. Today, many decades later, it would be interesting to read what we all deem to be our favorite quotes. And there would be many new names added to the book. I consider myself fortunate to remain connected with my closest friends from high school and college. And I consider myself quite fortunate to have made new, dear friends since. Anytime there’s a cold, bleak winter or spring day lacking sunshine and color, and I ask myself why I live in South Dakota. Friends is always my answer to myself. I am fortunate to have amazing friends. Friends of all ages, wages and backgrounds. There are many beautiful quotes about friendship. But the one I reflect on most often is one my mom reminded me and my brothers of often. “To have good friends, you must be a good friend.” I use the word “fortunate” and not the word “lucky” because I believe very little in life is left up to luck. I think most good things are the result of actions and behaviors. Not all. But most. I do not use the same logic when it comes to bad events and circumstances. In most cases, I believe we have little control over
