Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803- 1882)

Success


To laugh often and much;
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.