It’s probably a character flaw, but I rarely change my mind once I have made it up about something or someone. Even worse, as time goes on, something happens every day to assure me that I was right in the first place.

Psychologists say that one should review their feelings now and then and that change is not only to be expected, but as dear Martha says, “It is a good thing.” As for me, it’s a waste of time. I read a column I wrote in 1993 about opinions and in the ensuing years they remain unchanged.

One. The older one gets the less important many things are that were once thought to be crucial. Most of the people I battled with are dead or no longer relevant, the situations have faded and all the angst and turmoil were for nothing. (I hope I can remember that the next time I get aggravated.)

Two. Loyalty is the most important gift one can give or receive. Nothing else even comes close. All of you who are saying, “What about love?” need to remember love without loyalty isn’t.

Three. Relatives as far removed as tenth cousins should be cherished whether we like them or not. Still true. There are many cousins I like better than others - but I cherish them because we are becoming so few. And, my mother, who was always right, said, blood relatives must be prayed for and if possible made welcome at all times.

Four. Many people should never speak because they don’t know what they are talking about. Only too true in recent days. Politicians in particular care little about being factual. I recently heard one quote as a Biblical reference lyrics from a song written by the Beatles.

Five. People who constantly assure you of their high ethics, honesty and love for their spouse need to be watched. You know exactly what I mean. If they really possess all those fine qualities it is readily apparent and isn’t necessary to beat drums to make certain everyone knows it. Nothing is so enjoyable as to witness such a person being found out. And they always are.

Six. Don’t believe anything until it is officially denied. This truth has been proven over and over again. Remember when Clinton said he did not have an affair with what’s her name? Or when Prince Charles said what’s her name was only a friend? If someone in authority denies that something did not happen or was not said – it did and it was.

Seven. I do not like everyone. I don’t believe anyone likes everyone. It is impossible and very exhausting to even try. Psychology teaches that it’s better to avoid people you don’t like. Better for me and better for them.

Eight. No one ever got in trouble with their mouth closed. Every time I find myself in the middle of a brouhaha, it’s because I opened my mouth and said something. You have two choices when a controversial subject arises. Either throw caution to the wind and say what you must or keep your mouth closed and be safe. In my case, saying what had to be said always wins out over whether someone would like it or not.

Nine. Do not regret growing old – it is a privilege denied to many. Profoundly true. I have observed that it is easier to grow older than to get wiser. Some people are living proof of this truth and you know who they are.

Ten. Know when to shut up. The greatest truth of all.

So I will.