DEAR ABBY: Years ago, I sat over lunch, reading your mom's "Definition of Maturity." It was shortly after my dad died, and reading it made me realize how lucky I had been. Those were all lessons I learned at home from my parents.
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Perhaps this item is in your booklet. But could you print it in your column again for other readers to see? It's an important reminder of what to strive for. -- MARY H. IN IOWA
DEAR MARY: I am doing that with pleasure. I agree that Mama's definition of maturity is a timely reminder -- and perhaps something that people (of all ages) can learn from today.
DEFINITION OF MATURITY
Maturity is:
The ability to stick with a job until it's finished.
The ability to do a job without being supervised.
The ability to carry money without spending it.
And the ability to bear an injustice without wanting
To get even.
You were correct when you guessed that her definition of maturity is part of the "Keepers" booklet. Keepers is a collection of articles that readers suggested be put together in booklet form, many of which readers had hung onto until they were worn and yellowed with age. What resulted was a booklet that contains clever observations and items on diverse subjects, including parenting, children, aging, animals, forgiveness, and more. It can be ordered by sending your name and address plus a check or money order (U.S. funds) for $8 to Dear Abby Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)
Both witty and philosophical, the Keepers booklet is an inexpensive, welcome gift for newly married couples, pet lovers or anyone recovering from an illness and filled with down-to-earth nuggets of wisdom.