lessons from laura ingalls wilder

I read The Little House in a Big Wood long ago, I think before I was 12, but the story stuck. The way Laura described her daily living, the activities and all, captured me. I read the whole series in the last weeks of 2012 and I enjoyed the book very much.

I did a little googling this time to see her photos and to read more about her and found a letter from Laura on this website.

I love the way she ended her letter. This is the last paragraph:

The “Little House” books are stories of long ago. Today our way of living and our schools are much different; so many things have made living and learning easier. But the real things haven’t changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with the simple pleasures and to be cheerful and have courage when things go wrong. Great improvements in living have been made because every American has always been free to pursue his happiness, and so long as Americans are free they will continue to make our country ever more wonderful.

With love to you all and best wishes for your happiness,
I am Sincerely your friend,

Laura Ingalls Wilder
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I love especially this part:
But the real things haven't changed.
It is still best to be honest and truthful;
to make the most of what we have;
to be happy with the simple pleasures
and to be cheerful and have courage when things go wrong.
And I think that would be what I strive to do this year.