Submitted by Cindy Dugan Walker

cindy dugan walker is a nature and outdoor photographer by heart and hobby. she is the mother of a 13-year old son, and the local founder and director of a non-profit organization - "adopt-a-grandma" - which matches the elderly and aged to willing and caring volunteers.

Here are Cindy's "Five Rules For Life":

1.) Let it be! (as in the immortal words of the late John Lennon and Sir Paul McCartney).
I have learned that sometimes the biggest mistakes I have made in life are times when I refused to get out of my own "way" and instead forced things to happen. The best approach I have learned (and the most peaceful) is to just let "it" flow. Be flexible, orepare yourself for all that you can, and be there to take action when you are prompted. But in the end, let life take you "there" so you can discover the journey.

2.) Be Honest.
Be honest with yourself. Be honest with others. Live your life with integrity so that you can know what is "real" and what is true.

3.) Forgive.
Forgive your parents for any mistakes you think they made. At some point, we have to let go of all the negative things that they may have done (or not done) and take responsibility for our own life ahead. The only way to move forward in life is to let it go. Forgive everyone! Believe in "good intentions" and that most people live trying to do the best they can. Realize that whoever wronged you was probably not trying to. Along the way, don't forget to forgive yourself too. None of us are perfect.

4.) Keep your heart and mind open.
Don't allow the disappointments in life to get the best of you. Be open to new ideas and discover the world outside of yourself. Be open to new places and experience as much as you can. Be open to new friends and their different points of view. Be open to possibilities and embrace all your options. Be open to love, no matter how many times you've been hurt. Be open to your dreams and never let them go. Be open to inspiration because you never know when it will come.

5.) Take time for quiet and space, every day.
Take time to process what is going on in your life, in your mind, in your heart, and in your soul. Use the quiet to feel peace and to receive inspiration and thought. Use the space to center yourself again and to discover that you can be alone and still "enjoy the company that you keep". If you can enjoy being alone with yourself, others will enjoy being with you too!

Cindy currently resides along the Wasatch Front of the Utah Rocky Mountains.

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