I always think of Cookie when I read these words. They capture all that I believe is true about him:
To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.
Bravo, my friend. You are, indeed, a success, and I am blessed to call you my friend.
"Two drifters off to see the world. There's such a lot of world to see. . ."