The Golden Gems of Life endeavors to awaken in all the realization that life is a gift to be prized and not wasted. It is a book full of wise counsel (gems) about life and how to live it to the fullest. Although written in the 1880s, the advice is just as applicable to our generation as it was to their generation and will be to future generations. In fact, it is desperately needed by our generation. This is an abridged version of the original book. Repetition has been eliminated and the book has been made more reader friendly by updating some words and phrases, but still retaining much of the beautiful language of the original book. The topics have been organized/combined under the following sections: The Gift of Life The Aim of Life Family Life Virtues to Acquire Vices to Avoid Trials of Life Spiritual Life The Evening of Life The content of the above sections is that of the original authors. There are a couple of inspirational stories added at the end of the book that illustrate many of the principles contained in the original book. Perhaps the greatest regret is felt by the person who has misspent the gift of life and nearing the end of life's journey, looks back on years wasted and missed opportunities. In the guiding light of the present, mistakes of the past are plainly seen and you may wish to turn back the hands of time and chart a different course. But this is not possible. However, it may be possible to redeem the time by making the most of your life now. Regrets are useless except when they awaken a desire to avoid the errors of the past. You can decide that from this day forward you will gather only the true "Jewels of life" that can make your hopes of success and happiness a reality. The best legacy you can leave those who follow you is a life well lived - an example they can follow. Begin now to apply the "gems" inside this book and live a life that can be recommended to all those who follow you.