As I approach my 70^th birthday (fewer than four months to go!), I find myself looking back at all the years of teaching and writing with an eye toward what I think I’ve learned. Here’s my list. I pass it along in case some of you might find it useful as you consider your own paths as writers and/or teachers.

Give more than you take.

Never trust your highs and lows. Each will pass in time.

So much of your success, or lack thereof, is out of your hands. All you can control is the work you do.

One person’s opinion doesn’t make a truth.

Say yes more often than you say no.

Protect your time the best you can.

The descent of your career will eventually come. Try to make the fall last as long as it can.

Don’t keep what you’ve learned to yourself. Share it with those who come after you. It might just save them some time.

Never be cruel. What goes around comes around.

Tame the green monster of envy as much as possible. Direct your energy to your work.