Raymond was no stranger to challenges at work and in meeting the health challenges of his dear wife, Merilyn. However, he never complained.   When asked, “How are you doing?” he would respond, “One day at a time!”  Then he would smile – a genuine smile.  I knew he meant it.  One time while visiting with him in his home, I asked him how he remained so optimistic in the midst of so many difficult issues in all parts of his life.  He said, “Merilyn and I decided a long time ago that we would focus our energy on things we can change and not on those things we cannot.  We make the best of whatever we have.”  I heard him say this on other occasions in various settings.  I knew he meant it and knew he lived his life accordingly.  Raymond’s life’s motto, “one day at a time,” and his determination to focus his energy on things he could change and not on those he couldn’t, are very appropriate advice for us today.   That perspective served him well throughout his life and will do the same for us.   Thank you, Raymond, for your encouragement and example to us all.  Like you, we will seek to face life with optimism “one day at a time” and will focus our energy on things we can change, not on things we cannot.  I can hear you reassuringly say, “Things will work out.”  I’m confident they will, too.