Re "'7 Habits' author Covey remembered for devotion to family, faith" (Tribune, July 22):

With the death of Stephen R. Covey, I've been thinking of the effect he's had on my life. It's been a long-time since I was a hyper goal-setting, list-making, calendar-scheduling Covey fanatic, but the residual effect of his writings are still with me. When I'm overwhelmed, I prioritize and "put first things first."

Most important, for me, I don't treat as expendable luxuries things that nourish my soul. When I think I don't have time to meditate or read poetry or other soul-deepening activities, I say to myself, "Don't be too busy sawing to sharpen the saw." That replenishing of my spiritual reservoirs has made a big difference.

Thank you, Stephen Covey.

Bryce Draper

Salt Lake City