19 Life Lessons

I've debated a long time about whether or not to write this post. It seemed like a kind-of silly thing to write about, but it kept coming back to my mind. So, I decided to go ahead and spit it out. If you think it's silly, please know that I'm somewhat inclined to agree with you. ;-) However, I have had the thought that there might be someone out there who is like me. Someone who may read this and feel a little less alone, or perhaps be challenged by one of my points.

Maybe no-one told me. Or maybe I just didn't listen. Or maybe it was some of both. Anyroad, here are some of the lessons I've had to learn the hard way. I'm sure some of them are things everyone learns in the 'growing up' process, though many of them are probably unique to my personality.

1. Learn how to listen to God. Learn what His voice sounds like, and what you have to do to hear Him. Once you've established a 'talking relationship' with God, you won't settle for anything less.

2. It's usually a good idea to listen to your parents. You don't have to agree with everything they say, but being respectful will make your home life a lot more pleasant.

3. Learn how to say 'no' in a very firm, but also very respectful manner. This skill will come in handy.*

4. Give a lot of thought to the things you say and write. They will define you, not just in other people's eyes, but also in your own.

5. If you make a mistake, apologize for it as soon as possible, learn the lesson it has to offer, then give it to God and move on.

6. Figure out who you are. Don't change your personality and tastes to please other people. Don't feel obligated to follow in the exact footsteps of your parents or older siblings. At the same time, don't shove your individuality down other people's throats.

7. Keep your focus on God. Don't worry about what other people think. Remind yourself that, in the end, God's approval is all that really matters.*

8. Learn how to laugh at yourself. Most of the world takes itself far too seriously.

9. It's really okay to be 'just friends' with guys. Yes, people will tease you about your 'boyfriends'. Grin and move on.

10. If you complain about every little hardship, no-one will pay attention when a legitimate problem comes along.

11. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone.

12. Avoid stereotyping people or judging on appearances. Ask God to let you see people through His eyes.*

13. Accept the fact that emotions and tears are part of being female, and aren't all bad. Remember that 'tears aren't a sign of weakness - they're a sign that someone's been strong for too long'. But, for Heaven's sake, exercise some control over your emotions. Random emotional breakdowns and sob sessions are just awkward.*

14. Surround yourself with spiritually mature people whose opinion and advice you respect. But remember that God should be the ultimate authority.

15. Learn how to debate intelligently and unemotionally, but don't debate about every little difference that comes along. Save your energy for really important things. Also learn how to live in harmony with people who are different than you. 'Different' doesn't necessarily mean 'wrong'.

16. Life is tough. You can't go it alone. Swallow your pride and ask for help, accept help when it's offered, and don't feel guilty about it. Being a 'Lone Ranger Christian' doesn't pan out too well, either. You can only give of yourself a certain amount before you're empty. Take time to be refilled.*

17. Good relationships call for trust, transparency, and vulnerability. Guard walls are all well and good, but you'll find yourself alone if you keep them up all the time.

18. Money isn't really as important as most people think it is.

19. Don't let perfectionism or fear of failure demotivate you. *

So yup, I think I've at least touched on all of the major life lessons I've learned so far. I'm sure that, in another 19 years, I'll have quite a few more to add to this list.

The * denotes lessons I haven't quite mastered yet.