Yes, I’m a holocaust survivor, but that’s not what defines me. What’s far more important is the philosophy of life that I developed along my journey that enabled me to lead an empowered life and share my viewpoints with others. My core beliefs are:

Life is an amazing journey. Life is a mystery unfolding. You are the lead character in the process of your evolution. No rehearsal is required or desired. You are the creative, authentic author and producer of your life script. Embrace your uniqueness with courage and positive anticipation. Face all challenges head on as well as the opportunities life has to offer.

Flex your muscles. To lead the “good” life, find your inner determination, courage and resilience. Follow your heart and set a vision for yourself. No one knows you better than you what will make you happy. You are the captain of your boat of life. Navigate. It takes a vision before you can generate opportunities. What is your vision at the moment. Ponder this question until you find one that inspires you. It is never too late to take a different path on your life’s adventure.

There is no failure. As Joseph Simmons said, It will cost you nothing to dream and everything not to.” Failure is a concept of the feeble-minded. Replace the word “failure” with “challenge” and you will create the readiness for the next opportunity. Reflect on what you want to do, where you want to be and go for it.

Hurt brings opportunities. Resilience is a life-coping trait encompassing internal (ability to rebound from misfortunes) and external (an existing support system) factors. Are you resilient, able to learn from disappointing life experiences and capable of moving forward to your next opportunity? Yes, you are. Embrace life with vigor and positive anticipation. Make sure to seek, maintain and nurture a significant other in your life who will walk with you through the thick and thin.

Live life today. Your past does not own you. Your future and your past are part of your toolbox to be used whenever necessary. Live in the moment as if you will live forever. Be open to some of the mystery and unexpected occurrences that life offers. Curiosity, excitement and positive anticipation will help you embrace the unknown. It will also help shape the unknown. Yesterday is gone and past experiences are now in your archive of references for you to use constructively. Take your next steps forward. If the results do not pan out the way you exactly aspired, it’s okay. You will likely end up closer to your imagined goal than you would have without strong intentions. The journey is worth it because you’re worth it.