July 11

In this life, we must learn to develop the quality of urbane imperturbability. This is the ability to accept people as they are, and not let their annoying actions get under your skin. It will, in time, even get you to loving people.

July 10

A physician tells me that 35 to 50 percent of the ill are sick because they are basically unhappy. “Joy has significant therapeutic or healing value,” he says, “whereas gloom and depression militate against creative life processes.” Learn to live the joy way, for “a merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (Proverbs 17:22).

July 9

A friend once had a problem that had been agitating his mind for days and to which he could not get an answer. He decided to practice “creative spiritual quietness.” He went alone into a church and sat for an extended period in absolute silence. Presently, he began to be conditioned to quietness. Finally, he “dropped” his problem into a deep pool of mental and spiritual silence. He meditated upon God’s peace rather than upon the specific details of the problem. This seemed to clarify his thinking and, before leaving that quiet place, an answer began to emerge which proved to be the right one.

July 8

An old man appeared on a popular television program. He had received a prize for having won a contest. He stole the show with his exuberant spirit and quick wit. “It’s easy to see,” remarked the admiring master of ceremonies, “that you are a very happy man. What’s the secret of being as happy as you are? Let us in on it.” “Why, son,” the old man answered, “it’s as plain as the nose on your face. When I wake up in the morning, I have two choices. One is to be unhappy; the other is to be happy. And I want you to know, son, that I’m not as dumb as I may look. I’m smart enough to choose happiness. I just make up my mind to be happy . . . that’s all there is to it.”