I live my life by these guidelines taught to me by my German grandmother Amuli. They have never failed me:
Never cheat, lie or steal
Be honest in everything you do
Treat people with respect and dignity
Strive to reserve judgment
Respect nature
Live life as if you will die tommorro
Never stop learning
Always keep your word
Be optimistic in everything you do
Always remember that one minute of anger denies you one minute of happiness
(There were many more but I don't remember them all........ I guess I really don't have to)