Thoughts by the Fire at the Camp

Next week will be three years since I purchased a camper and pulled it to Kentucky. When I arrived, I set the camper up in a snowstorm.  The next morning I couldn't get the shower to run hot water.  After going home for the weekend, on my return trip to Kentucky, I hit something on I-65 so hard that I blew my tire and snapped the rim.  That was the beginning of the end for the Volvo. 

But not everything has been a bad experience at the old campground.  I have had some good times; kayaking on the lake, cooking out, being able to relax occasionally in the hammock, and having lots of time to read, and most recently, write.  While alone in the camper, or next to a big fire at night, I have been able to think through some things. As you know, none of the philosophies listed below are original.  All of these thoughts have been passed down for ages and ages.  I am just trying to live them and have gotten better at it while in Kentucky.  Some of my "campfire philosophies" are as follows:

• Enjoy the journey as you pass through life.  Watch a sunrise.  Go outside at night and look at the stars. Take an afternoon off after a grueling work week.  And learn to like and appreciate the power of silence and be still for a change.
• A man must do whatever he can to provide for his family. It may not be fun, it may be demoralizing, and it may not be your "dream" job, but there is great satisfaction in knowing that the people that depend on you are taken care of and are able to pursue their dreams.
• Take responsibility for problems that are the result of your own bad decisions.  Don't displace blame.  You won't learn from your mistakes until you take responsibility for them.
• Be bold before men but meek before God. 
• Money can destroy relationships. Especially when borrowing or lending.
• Live debt-free and below your means. It gives peace of mind.

I have a personal story that goes along with each of these "campfire philosophies" but I think I may save those for a later blog.  Tonight I am going to build a fire and enjoy the stars and some silence (with the exception of an occasional coyote).