leslie willingham moulton is wife to tres, mother of three, and an adjunct faculty member at dallas baptist university.
Here are Leslie's "Five Rules For Life":
1.) Always believe the best about someone.
Even when you are tempted not to, believe that the person with whom you are dealing with is honest, worthy of your respect, and has your best interest in mind. The paranoia that pervades many people can cripple their abilities to make friends, succeed, and experience new ideas!
2.) Never become so proud that you can't learn.
Humility in learning helps you learn more! A humble learner is an excellent student. Even when you are in a situation and not intending to learn, learn something anyway. If you are the teacher, learn something from your students. If you become too proud to learn about a new idea or topic, you become isolated and ignorance creeps in....be careful of your pride! The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline (Proverbs 1:7).
3.) Have a plan and work your plan.
Being organized can save you in many ways; it can save you time, money, and sanity. If you intend to do something, do it well and with a plan. If anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well. Engage in technology and let it be your servant as you keep up with your life!
4.) Just because you disagree with someone doesn't mean you have to hate them! People believe something, then they act on it!
Just like you, I have an opinion. Chances are you are not going to find anyone with whom you agree 100% of the time. Opinions matter sometimes, but people always matter more. Keep in mind that a person's opinion is not meant to hurt you personally; it just may be different than your own. However, always remember that people act on their beliefs. So, if you think someone is acting funny, try to figure out what they are believing.
5.) Live life to the fullest most of the time. Rest during the rest!
I believe I was meant to use the God-given talents I have to the fullest six of the seven days each week. I believe life should be lived with hope, joy, and freedom under the leadership of my God! The rest of the time I give to rest and rejuvenation doing things I like to do: napping, reading, playing with my children, talking to family and friends, playing Word Search, and worshipping God.
...editor's note - Leslie provided a sixth rule:
6.) Be careful who you listen to - you can hurt your own feelings.
Listen to others and yourself with a grain of salt. "Broken records" of bad thoughts about yourself can hurt your own feelings. They become a bad, static-filled radio station in your mind that can determine who you think you are, and of what you think you are capable.
Leslie currently resides in Mansfield, Texas.
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