I had the honor of being a “guest blogger” on my friend, Nicole’s “The Year of Exploration” site. Of course, I was late with my submission. But because the committee members are kind and forgiving and enjoy sharing an occasional glass of red (thanks, Liz), they posted it anyway. Thought I’d share it here with you. Enjoy!
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As one of Nicole’s “older” friends, I’m guessing that most of her readers are a good 10-15 years younger than Yours Truly. And although I don’t really claim to have much true “Wisdom” (despite the blog title), I do have an experience advantage that lends itself to some life lessons.
Some of you know that my husband, Chris, my kids, and I are undergoing some big life changes right now. He’s accepted a professorship with Mississippi State University; we’re packing up our four kids, two dogs, a guinea pig, and a frog; we’re leaving the only state we’ve ever known; we’re kissing our dear friends and family goodbye; and we’re heading to Starkville for life’s next grand adventure.
In the midst of this roller-coaster ride, I’ve been reminded of some great lessons, have re-focused on what truly matters.
And so, TYOE followers, I thought I’d share some of those pearls (or possibly cubic zirconia — you choose) with you.
So without further ado, here they are…
1. Life is meant to be experienced, not watched from the sidelines. Take chances, make mistakes, always remain in motion. When you stop reaching, your world becomes small. And this world far too big to be lived in miniature.
2. Every dog hair on your pants is worth the unconditional affection of your furry friends. And buy a Dyson. The purple kind. They’re pure magic in vacuum form.
3. Red wine is good for your heart… and your attitude. It’s not so good for your white capri pants.
4. If you can’t change it, choose it.
5. People come and go in your life. They’re here for a reason, they’re here at just the right time, and every relationship teaches you what you need to know. Be willing to learn.
6. When people step on your heart, it’s usually about them… not you.
7. It’s better to be kind than to be right.
8. Morning sex is the best. No matter how crappy the rest of your day might be, you can’t deny the fact that it began well.
9. Everyone should have a hobby of some sort. Be it fishing, reading, sculpting, exercising, or trampoline-jumping, everyone should have something of his or her own to feel passionate about. And participating regularly in Life Lesson #8 doesn’t count.
10. In the end, it’s all about love. Love, love, love. Give it freely, trust with wild abandon, do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. Reach out with generosity and compassion, and watch your hands be filled with the spirit of humankind.
11. Take care of your teeth. You only get one set.
12. White sugar and white flour are the bane of human existence. They taste damn good, but they’re like the serpents waiting at the base of the apple tree. Use sparingly.
13. Laugh with reckless abandon. Often. Loudly. With friends and lovers and children of all ages.
14. Gently but firmly hold those who mean the most with both hands. And when they need to let go, kiss them on the cheek and wish them Godspeed.
15. Hug. Then hug some more.
16. Eat more fish, take Vitamin D, and stop smoking.
17. Sing at the top of your lungs. Preferably to some good 80s tunes, Adele, or sappy love songs.
18. Walk in the woods.
19. Know that fear is incapacitating and weak and serves no purpose. Then believe it. Then live it.
20. Eat more leafy greens.
21. Money comes. Money goes. Money comes back. Don’t let it define you.
And that, Dear Readers, just about sums up the extent of my Wisdom. If you’re in need of more, you’ll have to consult Dr. Oz, Maya Angelou, or Stuart Smalley.
Now go put on some kicky shoes, perfect your swagger, and take the world by storm.
I’ll meet you out there.
