All of us sport an invisible sign around our necks -- “AS IS.” It means, take me as I am. I may not become what you want me to be. And I'm far, far from perfect. But I have some great qualities, too, as well as my share of faults. You will have to take me “AS IS” and I'll take you that way, too.

Who doesn't want to know that we notice them and value them? And who might respond to us better when they feel that they matter? It probably cannot be overstated - it matters...that people matter.

Of course we need to accept ourselves as we are, but we can't stop there. We also need to value ourselves enough make needed changes.

Causes do matter. And the world is changed by people who care deeply about causes - about things that matter. We don't have to be particularly smart or talented. We don't need a lot of money or education. All we really need is to be passionate about something important; something bigger than ourselves. And it's that commitment to a worthwhile cause that changes the world.

The key to good listening isn't technique, it's desire. Until we truly want to understand the other person, we'll never listen well.

There are few qualities more vital than a strong yearning. That desire to reach a little farther, to be a little more, yearning...for a piece of something greater, can often make all the difference.

Wherever you are, be there. If you can be fully present now, you'll know what it means to live.