The simple truth is this: Our self-concept is our destiny. So if we want to change our destiny for the better, we need to change our concept and beliefs about our selves also for the better. We always have the freedom to choose better thoughts.

I am convinced that we all have a choice: to be positive and work through it, or not. Allowing your inner child to always shine through is a powerfully-wonderful positivity factor. Don't be afraid to be a grown up kid at times -- let your guard down and just be.

Energy comes from humor. However, each of us, even the crotchety, must locate our sense of what's funny, raucous or wry. Although jokes often elude me, I really respond to the spontaneous comedy of life itself.

Twenty years ago, a divine gift touched my soul and stirred my spirit. While visiting my cousin in California, her then-6-year-old daughter Nikki and I spent a whole glorious day playing dolls.

My children make me happy for many reasons, of course. But it strikes me that one reason they make me happy is they encourage me to engage more deeply with the physical world.

For those of us who are both afflicted and blessed by the tendency to feel deeply about people and things, we may find ourselves very conflicted about the flurry of expectations for us to spend money and experience joy for the "holidays."

If you pay careful attention to your emotions, you will discover, in your relationships with others, that it is often not another's behavior that is creating your misery or your inner peace or joy, but rather your own responses.

Creating is delightful, fun and calming. It is spiritual, healing and transformative. Finding your creativity will help your physical health as well as make you a kinder, more generous person.

Speaking aloud in a loving voice, say "hi" to your inner child and let him know that you'd like to have a talk. Be still.

Consider this: as consumers in a highly-technical society, we have come to expect efficiency and convenience, as well as instant gratification and quick turnarounds.