In 25 years…

In 25 years I have learned that self-imposed limitations are the most dangerous kind.  What YOU tell yourself matters more than what anyone else could ever say. 

I have learned to give myself a moment (or ten) before reacting out of anger. My first impulse is almost always to be a bitch, but we are not slaves to our impulses. 

I have learned that absolutely nothing is better than fur and puppy breath and sloppy kisses and the perfect love of man’s best friend. Nothing.

I have learned that people don’t like to be bossed around.  Even if you’re definitely right and they’re definitely wrong and everyone would be better off if they do what you say. 

I have learned that, when you’re 17 and it seems like the whole world is crashing down around you and you’re pretty sure nothing could ever get better, it will.  It will always gets better.

I have learned that there are, most definitely and without a doubt, good and evil forces at work in this world.  And I want to be on the good guys’ side.

I have learned that people are the way they are for a reason, and before you judge them, you should always try to understand them first.  Once you understand them, you usually don’t want to judge them anymore.

I have learned that thinking about others a little more than you think about yourself is the cure to almost everything that ails you.

On that note, I have also learned that I am not a very thoughtful person, and I’m working on it.

I have learned that reading good books, especially a good series of books, is like falling in love over and over again.  The infatuation, the newness, the can’t-get-it-off-your-mind-ness.  Best part is, you can do it from the comfort and safety of your very monogamous relationship. :)

I have learned that nothing can steal your happiness unless you let it.  Not money (or lack thereof).  Not cancer.  Not toxic people.  Not genetic predispositions.  Happiness is a choice you make every day, and since it feels better to be happy than sad, why not choose happy?

Hope you all enjoy my birthday. :)  Here’s to another wonderful year ahead!