at seventeen…
How did that old song go? We learn the truth at seventeen…
I loved that song, then, but I realize now that there is so much you haven’t learned at seventeen, so many truths the world still has to show you.
My niece is seventeen today. And for her gift, she requested a post about her, humble girl that she is. So, I thought I would share a few of the things it took me longer than seventeen years to learn…not that I’m finished, yet.
Don’t give up too much of yourself for love. Ever.
Your heart will be broken, more than once. But you will survive. You will do more than survive, you will grow, each time.
The world is a tough and crazy place. It is also wonderful. It will,
at times, knock you down. But you will always get back up.
Be confident. And when you are not, fake it. It almost always
turns into the real thing.
Be sure to laugh, every day. I mean it. There is always something to laugh at, even if it is yourself. (Just call if you are ever short on possibilities, you can laugh at me.)
Stand tall. You are already tall, so don’t slouch. Stand up straight. Tower over life.
Don’t give in when you know you are right. Not right as in correct, right as in righteous. And understand the difference.
Learn how to compromise. It is a valuable tool that makes life easier. For everyone.
Learn how to forgive. It is a valuable tool that makes life easier.
For you.
Dance. Sing. Be happy. Without caring what anyone else thinks. Whenever and as often as you can.
Live with grace. Say please, and thank you, and always hold the door open for the next person.
Never stop learning. Keep asking questions. The more you learn,
the less you know.
Make waves. Especially when standing still is worse than the problem.
Go out into the world. Explore. Expand your horizon.
And most importantly, eat lots and lots of pickles.
Happy Birthday, Goofball.
