Years ago, the university sent me to a conference at a resort in South Carolina. The resort is in the barrier area on the coast, Kiawah Island. Anyway, lagoons we’re scattered throughout the grounds. Also scattered throughout the grounds were signs that read, “Do Not Feed the Alligators.”

It’s best not to feed them so they won’t come around and don’t stay around. Evidently, alligators are not satisfied with simple food offerings. They like the idea of eating the one who brought the treat as well.

It struck me at the time this was good advice for living my life, through each day I am so graciously given. There are alligators in my circle, in me, around me. No trouble identifying them.

From time to time, when I stop to think the message returns to me. Do not feed the alligators.

No doubt you have alligators lurking around you too. My good advice is to stop feeding them