In a letter dated 5/21/45 Fred writes to a friend about strategies for overcoming temptation. Although the specific situation isn’t identified, the principles apply to all of us. This wisdom came from a 30 year old Fred…63 years ago this week.

“I have thought a lot about our conversation and am still convinced I was right. But I don’t want to offer criticism without definite suggestions. I am reminded of the verse of scripture which says, “There has no temptation befallen you that is not common to man.” I believe your temptation is probably the most common. Actually, this makes it easier to find a cure. You made definite progress when you admitted to yourself the real cause. Now the cure.

Here is my system for staying out of the booby trap you are in.

• Balance your life by establishing a program:
  • Work
  • Recreation
  • Social Life
  • Sleep
• Stay busy on something you feel is worthy of your life. We are trading our life every hour for what we accomplish. Be a good trader.
• Associate with positive people who are achieving and getting a kick out of it. Last night I got a real lift out of Dr. Powell’s sermon (Dr. Powell was the Pastor of First Baptist Church where Fred and Mary Alice belonged.). I talked a little with him. And, I really didn’t want to go at first.
• Read some every day- I find it good to divide my “off the job” reading into three categories:
  • Bible
  • Current events
  • Inspirational stuff like biographies and “pep books.”
• Force yourself until these things become a habit and you have won.

The things I mention are not easy – if they were, everybody would be successful. They call for a price, sometimes a high one, but a balanced, successful, happy life is worthy any price. The very fact you are unhappy means you are not destined for mediocrity. Your better nature is rebelling against wanting to live in that state —- move on. You have come to Kadesh Barnea.

Yours ‘til the cows come home,

Fred Smith