My friends –

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

We all know this phrase from the Declaration of Independence. It’s been drilled in our heads from civics classes to speeches, especially around each July 4th holiday – and rightfully so. Since our nation’s founding, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness have defined the American dream.

We all strive to be happy. Relationships are tough. I wish you all success in finding joy in the world, because it is out there. Be kind to others. Learn to forgive.

”Pain nourishes courage. You can’t be brave if you’ve only had wonderful things happen to you.” – Mary Tyler Moore

”Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” – Khalil Gibran

“If we must part forever, Give me but one kind word to think upon, And please myself with, while my heart’s breaking.” – Thomas Otway

“Falling in love is like holding a candle. Initially it lightens up the world around you. Then it starts melting and hurt you. Finally it goes off and everything is darker than ever and all you are left with is the.. BURN!” ― Syed Arshad

“The walls we build around us to keep sadness out also keeps out the joy.” – Jim Rohn