If you’re a trend spotter, you’ll do well, so long as you’re at the beginning of the trend and not the middle. But very few of us have this capability and we only notice what the next big thing is when it already is the next big thing.

Given this, it’s better to be at the back of the pack when you know you cannot be at the forefront. Not for you to be trying to do what everybody else is already discarding, but for you to notice what everyone else has overlooked in the mad rush to be with the “in crowd”.

As they trample over all the grass and leaves, looking at others instead of around them, note the surroundings instead. What does the bigger landscape look like? What do the tiny details left behind point to?

You never know what you will find.

“The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness;
to an opponent tolerance;
to a friend your heart;
to your child a good example;
to a father deference;
to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you;
to yourself respect;
and to all men charity.”

– Frances Balfour

*Keep searching for answers
…but never stop asking questions.

*Keep your good common sense
…but don’t forget to use it.

*Keep doing your work
…but remember the difference between “done” and “well done”.

*Keep your feet on the floor
…but let your love for learning soar.

*Keep turning in your library books on time
…but never stop checking them out.

*Keep your nose clean…
…but soil your hands with hard work.

*Keep yourself in your own space
…but let your thoughts mingle with those of others.

*Keep your sense of humor
…but share it when it will make someone else feel better.

*Keep your area clean
…but clutter your mind with knowledge.

*Keep quiet in the halls
…but speak loudly and proudly when presenting your ideas.