The Kenny Rogers Guide to Life:

In the grand poker game of life, Kenny Rogers dished out some timeless advice: "You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, and know when to run." It's not just a catchy lyric; it's a roadmap to navigating the twists and turns that life throws our way.

Let's break it down, shall we?

Know When to Hold 'Em: Life often feels like a game of poker. Sometimes, you're dealt a fantastic hand – a dream job, a great relationship, or an opportunity of a lifetime. Holding 'em means recognizing when you've got something valuable and worthwhile. Like that job you love but is currently driving you insane – it might just be a rough patch, and holding on might lead to a brighter future. Knowing when to hold 'em is about perseverance, resilience, and the belief that the best is yet to come.

Example: Sticking with a hobby that challenges you, even when you're tempted to throw in the towel. Remember, every artist was once an amateur.

Know When to Fold 'Em: On the flip side, there are times when you're dealt a hand that's just not in your favor. Folding 'em isn't a sign of weakness; it's a recognition of reality. Whether it's a toxic relationship, a dead-end job, or a project that's going nowhere – sometimes, the best move is to cut your losses and fold. The key here is learning to distinguish between a challenge to overcome and a sinking ship.

Example: Ending a friendship that's more drama than joy. You've got to recognize when the effort you're putting in is outweighed by the negativity coming out.

Know When to Walk Away: Walking away is the middle ground. It's that moment when you realize you've given it your best shot, but it's time to gracefully bow out. It's about recognizing when you've reached the limit of what you can do or when something is no longer serving your growth and happiness.

Example: Leaving a job that, despite your best efforts, is not aligning with your career goals. Walking away is an empowered choice, not a defeat.

Know When to Run: And then, there are moments when the only sane option is to run – not from a problem but towards self-preservation. When something is jeopardizing your well-being, be it physical or emotional, running is the only sensible response. It's not a sign of cowardice; it's a demonstration of self-love and self-respect.

Example: Exiting a toxic relationship where your mental health is at stake. Running isn't always about avoiding problems; sometimes, it's about running towards a healthier, happier you.

In the end, life is a continuous poker game. The key is to recognize the hands you're dealt, assess the risks, and play each round with a blend of strategic thinking and intuition. So, channel your inner Kenny Rogers, trust your instincts, and remember, the cards you're holding may change, but the wisdom of knowing when to hold 'em, fold 'em walk away, and run will always be your ace in the hole.~RS ♠

Texas Abortion Battle

The Texas Supreme Court paused a lower court's ruling over the weekend allowing a Dallas-area woman to receive an abortion despite the state's new laws limiting access to the procedure. The case is believed to be the first of its kind in the US since Roe v. Wade was overturned last June.  

In Other News

1.Researchers presented promising new data from their ongoing development of a vaccine that “could potentially eliminate breast cancer.”

2.This postcard was sent from Australia to the U.K. in August 1981, and it just arrived at its intended destination.

3.Tonight, an asteroid will pass in front of one of the brightest stars in the night sky, creating a rare and short-lived eclipse visible to millions.

4.Scientists discovered that a fossil previously thought to be of a plant is actually evidence of an ancient turtle species.

Americans are Stressed Out

Retirement savers are borrowing from their 401(k) accounts at an alarming rate. Experts say that this is a leading indicator of "economic stress."

Inflation is the main reason for an increase in withdrawals.

As Americans feel a tighter squeeze on their budgets, many are dipping into their last resort funds in order to keep up.

Fidelity Investments, the nation’s largest 401(k) administrator, said 641,000 people took loans in the third quarter, an increase from the same period last year.

• 2.6% of savers, (about 138,000 people), took a loan from their workplace 401(k) plan in Q3 of this year.