|
A Few Words from My Experiences in Life |
|
By the late Gordon Sykes Jones |
|
|
|
Gordon S. Jones |
[Editor's note: the following was written by the son-in-law of Odger and Monalea (Ullom) Miner for the benefit of his nieces and nephews ]
I would like to share with you some of the experiences I’ve had and the lessons I learned from them:
Worrying about what could have been is a waste of time. Just remember a year from now you won’t remember what you were concerned about. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Just remember what is done is done.
Whenever you have a decision to make and are not sure, go to God in prayer and ask for guidance. It works. Pray for direction.
You have been blessed with much, more than most. Never look down on someone less fortunate.
When I was very young my fellow students would taunt me because of my big ears that stuck out. This bothered me greatly and I spent too much time fretting about it. I found out as I grew older that you should not worry about things you had no control over.
When I worked in the steel mill while attending college I had the lowliest job which I detested, but having the right attitude I decided to do the best job possible. This put me in the right frame of mind for whatever what job I had in life. It also gave me the practice and satisfaction of doing my best. Always do your best.
|
| The steel mill in Aliquippa, PA where Gordon worked during college summers in 1950-1953 before joining Mellon Bank and going on to a 40-year career |
When I got home from the Army I was offered a good job with a big insurance company in Connecticut. They flew me up and it was a job in management which was just what I wanted. I declined it because I had obligations at home i.e., a recently widowed mother, etc.
The important thing is that you have to play the cards you have been dealt.
I have found in my life I have no envy of others. I am thankful for what I have and am very happy that others have things I don’t. I was blessed with this gift and I have seen how envy and jealousy can harm a person’s life. I am very thankful for my many blessings. You should be too. You have been blessed with much and how you handle God’s gifts are very important. AND just remember that envy is a sin. Do not be envious.
Forgive others. If you have been hurt or slighted you don’t want to get even, just pray for them.
When you have a decision to make, try to take the next small step. Be guided by your common sense.
I have been very fortunate for all I have and I thank God for my life. Do not be of the opinion that what you desire is your right. Be thankful for what you have and don’t forget to thank God.
--Uncle Gordon
Copyright © 2013 Gordon Sykes Jones. Re-published here with permission.