
The innocence of the younger me tugged at my heart. I didn't realize it then (as we all don't) how simple and precious that time of my life was, and how I took so many things for granted.
I've occasionally seen a post where the author asks what advice we'd give ourselves if we could go back in time. I've had a rewarding life, but here are a few things I'd tell my younger self if given the opportunity.
1. Always give thanks to God for all the gifts He's given you.
2. Listen to all your grandparents' stories, even though they've told the same tales for what seems like over a hundred times. There will be a day when you'd give anything to hear them speak of their adventures one more time.
3. Treat people the way you'd like to be treated. Race, religions and genders shouldn't matter. Look past physical appearances and see the inner beauty. You'll be called names that'd make a sailor blush. Ignore the hate and negativity. Continue to give people dignity and respect.
4. Be patient. Things don't happen overnight. Place your trust in God, and if it's meant to happen, it will.
5. True friends are precious. Never take them for granted. They’re the ones who’ll applaud during
your success, and wipe away the tears when you fail.
6.Shake it off! As you grow in popularity and success, there will be those that'll use and hurt you...deeply. Some people who will use and hurt you, deeply. Shrug it off. They were never your friends,
and their opinion of you doesn’t matter.
7. Life is never a piece of cheesecake. There will be more joy than suffering, but always obstacles in the path to your goals. Do everything you can to overcome them. If you fail, take a deep breath and try again. The only real failure is never having tried at all.
8. Forgive...and do it often. We all get our feelings hurt by friends and loved ones. Will it matter a couple of years from now, ten years? Put it behind you. Harboring anger and resentment does nothing but add emotion baggage to your soul.
9. Advocate. You'll encounter (your son will be one) that will not have the ability to speak on behalf of their rights. Be their voice. Speak loudly, and speak often.
10. Live like there's no tomorrow. Don't dwell on "if only" and "what if". Life is precious. Tell family and friends how much they mean to you, and enjoy every second of every day.
What advice would you give to your younger self?