Owen, a student who attends the high school where I teach, shared this video on his Facebook group Small Acts of Kindness (SAK), which he started to give people a chance to share the little things that make the lives of others a bit better. He certainly did just that in sharing this video with me.

The video is about a man named Nick who has no arms or legs, and he has an amazing outlook on life that he shares with others through motivational workshops. Please take the five minutes or so to watch it. Let Nick share his story with you.

I’m always humbled by these stories and encouraged to appreciate my life in ways I never imagined. Nick reminds me that we must never give up, never quit, never stop trying to accomplish whatever goal we might have established. I think that’s what is so refreshing about the new year. If we’re able to give ourselves second chances and renewed opportunities just because the calendar year changed, why can’t we do that at any other time during the year?

I suggest we can, simply by remembering Nick and all that he teaches us in this brief video.

Enjoy this day, and Never Give Up. There’s always a reason to give the goal another try so that you may “finish strong.” as Nick puts it.

Here we are, all at the starting line together. Hand in hand, promise within promise, we look forward to the possibilities that await us in this new year. We’ve all got a few things going for us, so let’s look at those quickly:

1. We’re starting with a fresh slate. Forgive yourself of the shortfalls of 2009 and begin anew. Don’t let the mistakes made in the last 12 months follow you into 2010. Instead, make the commitment to embrace all the new year has to offer, and go for it.
2. Don’t make it harder than it has to be. Stay grounded in the simple things: Love, Companionship, Charity, and Truth. Everything else will fall into place if you begin with these four.
3. Believe in the You that you are right now. Don’t talk about how great it’s going to be in 4, 6, or 10 months. Talk about how great you’ve got it right now, and savor the glory of the You Moment right now. I don’t care if you are on a bus or standing in some checkout line. Love thyself. Always.
4. Enjoy the passage of time. Every moment of it. Do not waste a single flutter of a butterfly’s wings or the final seconds of sun as it sets in the west.

The Secret O’ Life: Love, Companionship, Charity, Trust. <3

I wish nothing but the absolute best for each of you in 2010!