I know that everyone says to not live life with regrets...
But I'm feeling regretful. I hate how so many of my friendships ended...
I guess I'm just feeling alone and wondering if I had done something different in the past.... Things would be different now.
Don't you hate that feeling....
Well I'm gonna watch new girl now.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Wrecking this journal!
Have you guys ever seen this book? It is "Wreck This Journal" by Keri Smith.
Here are the instructions... Pretty easy right?
Ok, here is MY page 1. Ya ya kinda boring. I just had a pen ok!
Page 2. Pretty boring.... Again. But then I had a thought.... MARKERS!
Page 3. Writing my name in white, writing my name illegibly, righting my name in tiny letters, etc.
Page 4. Fill this page with circles! I did polka dots. Close enough!
Page 5 is "make a sudden, destructive, unpredictable movement with the journal. I randomly tried to tear the book in half. It didn't work!
Page 6. Doodle over top of this page. So I did. If you read the words that are underneath.... About half way through it tells you to stop reading. So I did.
Page 7. Tear strips. Rip it up! Therefore it was ripped!
This book is going to be really fun. As I was flipping through there were things like "sleep with your journal" "shower with your journal"
Sorry about my messy hair!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Life
Dear Friends,
Things haven't been very good lately....
My dear sweet Lulu Bell died on March 15th 2012. She was almost 14 years old. She had a second stroke and was paralyzed. We had to put her down.
In a way, I'm glad. She was sad. She didn't like having things wrong with her and didn't know how to adapt. She was embarrassed. Now, she is in heaven with her sister. She's no longer in pain and is happier than I can ever know. She even gets to play with Jesus now. How lucky is she? She gets to sit on Jesus' lap.
On the other hand... I'm very heartbroken. She was easily one of my best friends. She was born when I was 5, almost 6 and I hardly remember a time without her. I told her my secrets, I really did. I'd be home alone and she would come sit with me and I'd talk to her. I'd tell her what I've done, how sad I am, how I wish to change things. I knew she understood. And she loved me anyway. She was always happy to see me.... Lately it's been hard without her here. It's quite and there is an obvious void without her here....
Because of this whole in our hearts and home..... We are welcoming a new friend into our family. Dorothy Louise, or Dot.
Dot is a 5 month old red shih tzu. She is a whopping 3.8 pounds and will only grow to be 5-6lbs. She recently had surgery to fix a double hernia and will join us shortly. She is so shy and sweet and I can tell she is going to have a rambunctious streak in her.
We are so excited to have her. She gives us hope and fills a part of us that we had lost. We miss Lulu dearly... We will never forget her. But we are excited to have our new friend, Dot. I'll see Lulu again someday.
Things haven't been very good lately....
My dear sweet Lulu Bell died on March 15th 2012. She was almost 14 years old. She had a second stroke and was paralyzed. We had to put her down.
In a way, I'm glad. She was sad. She didn't like having things wrong with her and didn't know how to adapt. She was embarrassed. Now, she is in heaven with her sister. She's no longer in pain and is happier than I can ever know. She even gets to play with Jesus now. How lucky is she? She gets to sit on Jesus' lap.
On the other hand... I'm very heartbroken. She was easily one of my best friends. She was born when I was 5, almost 6 and I hardly remember a time without her. I told her my secrets, I really did. I'd be home alone and she would come sit with me and I'd talk to her. I'd tell her what I've done, how sad I am, how I wish to change things. I knew she understood. And she loved me anyway. She was always happy to see me.... Lately it's been hard without her here. It's quite and there is an obvious void without her here....
Because of this whole in our hearts and home..... We are welcoming a new friend into our family. Dorothy Louise, or Dot.
Dot is a 5 month old red shih tzu. She is a whopping 3.8 pounds and will only grow to be 5-6lbs. She recently had surgery to fix a double hernia and will join us shortly. She is so shy and sweet and I can tell she is going to have a rambunctious streak in her.
We are so excited to have her. She gives us hope and fills a part of us that we had lost. We miss Lulu dearly... We will never forget her. But we are excited to have our new friend, Dot. I'll see Lulu again someday.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Ok friends,
How goes it?
Well. There have been a large amount of changes in my life over the last couple of weeks.
#1 I have started an eating program called Take Shape For Life. We eat 5 replacement meals called Medifast meals and we eat one lean and green meal a day. I've been on it for 20 days and have lost 14 pounds. BE AMAZED! It's pretty awesome I must say.
#2 I have decided that I am no longer going to attended Weber State and will start the Managing Bookkeeping program at the DATC. That way I get training in the accounting field without a 6 year (masters) degree. I can work with CPA's and find out what they really do and THEN go back to school to get my masters if I decided that it is alright for me. Honestly, I feel like I am wasting my time at Weber. I don't go to class because my teachers dont take roll and all my work is online. I'm sick of doing general education...after all that's what I have been doing for the last 14 years of my life... Not to mention how expensive it is. I can do my entire 16 month program at the DATC for one semester's tuition at Weber. Remember how I took Phlebotomy at the DATC? Well, I really enjoyed my experience there. My teacher knew my name, called me on the phone if I needed help and actually worked as a phlebotomist (aka not a professor). It was hands on a real world. And that's what I need to not get bored with learning.
#3 My anxiety and insomnia have run rampant. I don't know if it's because of the major changes I have made in my life or what... But I am not a particularly calm individual as of late.
#4 I have become journalling like a maniac. I currently have around 6 journals. Ya crazy, I know. I think I've begun doing so as a way to replace my addiction to food ( because it very much was/is an addiction) and as a way to release my thoughts and anxiety.
I gotta tell you that I'm so sad that I haven't made any friends in college. The thought that I would is what got me though my last few months of high school. And to not have met any disappoints me. I thought I'd have an opportunity to be more social. But I guess that only really applies to people who live on campus... If anything I feel more alone than ever. I crave a connection with someone. Maybe I jinxed myself.
How goes it?
Well. There have been a large amount of changes in my life over the last couple of weeks.
#1 I have started an eating program called Take Shape For Life. We eat 5 replacement meals called Medifast meals and we eat one lean and green meal a day. I've been on it for 20 days and have lost 14 pounds. BE AMAZED! It's pretty awesome I must say.
#2 I have decided that I am no longer going to attended Weber State and will start the Managing Bookkeeping program at the DATC. That way I get training in the accounting field without a 6 year (masters) degree. I can work with CPA's and find out what they really do and THEN go back to school to get my masters if I decided that it is alright for me. Honestly, I feel like I am wasting my time at Weber. I don't go to class because my teachers dont take roll and all my work is online. I'm sick of doing general education...after all that's what I have been doing for the last 14 years of my life... Not to mention how expensive it is. I can do my entire 16 month program at the DATC for one semester's tuition at Weber. Remember how I took Phlebotomy at the DATC? Well, I really enjoyed my experience there. My teacher knew my name, called me on the phone if I needed help and actually worked as a phlebotomist (aka not a professor). It was hands on a real world. And that's what I need to not get bored with learning.
#3 My anxiety and insomnia have run rampant. I don't know if it's because of the major changes I have made in my life or what... But I am not a particularly calm individual as of late.
#4 I have become journalling like a maniac. I currently have around 6 journals. Ya crazy, I know. I think I've begun doing so as a way to replace my addiction to food ( because it very much was/is an addiction) and as a way to release my thoughts and anxiety.
I gotta tell you that I'm so sad that I haven't made any friends in college. The thought that I would is what got me though my last few months of high school. And to not have met any disappoints me. I thought I'd have an opportunity to be more social. But I guess that only really applies to people who live on campus... If anything I feel more alone than ever. I crave a connection with someone. Maybe I jinxed myself.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Hair hair hair!!
Look at the cute hair I did for my friend Jessica! Isn't it amazing. The longest layer of her hair is not even to her shoulders but its complete with faux finger waves, side twists and pin curls. I LOVE IT! And I won't forget how much she loved it and how many complements she got on it!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
A Dubstep Moment
So, it's Thursday and that means I don't have any school or work. That usually means I run to the maverick as well. I was driving into the maverick parking lot and I parked. I kept the engine running for a second and I had "First of the Year (Equinox)" by Skrillex. (Great song. Look it up) This total hipster guy, wearing a beanie, a white v-neck and skinny jeans, walks out of the maverick and looks over at me in total shock and amazement. What? Cant a nice Mormon girl like me love and listen to some Dubstep?
Anyway.... This pretty much made my life.
Anyway.... This pretty much made my life.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Life Lessons by Josh F
I have a friend and over the last little while he has been posting some "life lessons" on Facebook. This guy is great. He takes everything, absolutely everything, and turns it into something positive. And I thought it would be good to share what I have read of his. It's nice to know that the way I think isn't totally weird :) again, this guy is great and I am so happy to see such positive and inspirational things on Facebook.
Thanks Josh.
Life Lesson #21: Make yourself a priority. Everybody stresses about impressing that certain someone- or just trying to impress everyone. They feel they aren't worth it if they can't be praised by the masses. But it doesn't really matter who else cares about you- as long as you care about yourself- someone will like you just for that. Hell I can say with almost 100% certainty that I'm not at th...e top of anyone else's list. I can't make myself be the favorite, go-to guy for everything. I'm not the person that gets 200 LIKES or comments on fb, or 30 girls hitting me up at night. I'm single, going thru college, working, making my way thru life. I can't place myself at the top of anyone's list; anyone except for mine. At the end of the day the person who's always around is the person looking at you in your reflection. If you can make that person happy; then there's no stopping what else you can do. Everybody has something, or many things that make them unique and amazing; accept who you are and make the most out of those incredible gifts you've been given.
Life Lesson #20: Acceptance. Has anyone ever seen that kid always sitting by himself at lunch? Or that person standing in the corner during break? Well that was me. Back in elementary and jr. high. Now I have friends from all walks of life- and you know what most of them have in common with each other? Nothing really- except I was friends with them and they were human. But how much more do you need to accept someone? Take the people that inspired this: Adam is one of the guys I play yugioh with- that's how I met him; but aside from that he's got a lot of other great qualities. Ambrya I met thru Fb..... kind of- I sort of was oblivious in high school. She's more honest and caring than most people I know. David used to be a rival of mine- but after doing some growing up he's one of my best friends. As for Curtis, Brandon, and Andrew? We're all basically misfits- well at least in high school- but there was something that we had in common with each other- with everyone I've listed. They were all accepting. Most people just write me off; but for the ones that don't- I have friends who are skaters, druggees, goths, preppies, jocks, nerds, geeks, from all over. To most people those things just don't add up; that's where the cliques come from. But for some it makes perfect sense. We didn't have all the same interests but we take each other for who that person is- just another friendly face. Not a one has tried to change me in any way (except for a mishap with a mullet that was completely deserving :D). I'm fortunate to have met each and every one of them. We're always so selfconscious about who our friends are.... why? A person is a person no matter what they look like on the outside. Judge a person by first getting to know them and see what's inside. Don't be so critical that you miss out on the chance of a lifetime. You never know what's out there till you see it firsthand.
Life Lesson #19: Give credit where credit is due. People help you out all the time; show them they are appreciated. I have a confession: About half of these life lessons have been happening to me as I type them. I didn't need to drag other people into my problems so I never said anything; but I haven't been having an amazing few weeks (not going into too much detail). But thru all of the supp...ort, and encouragement from all of you- not to mention hearing about how I could help or make the rest of you happy- gave me something to take pride in. I've said before helping others makes you happy- it really does- at least for this guy :). I found my way out.
Life Lesson #18: Don't be ashamed to ask for help. Never let pride be your downfall- we all have our strong and weak points; and for every one of them there's someone who can balance it out. We're never really alone if we just look in the right place; there's always someone who's there for you. So with that I just have to say; I need help :) I've kinda been braindead the last few days as to what to make into a life lesson.....so if anyone has any suggestions? That'd be amazing...... otherwise you may not see any of these for a bit :/ sorry. But any help would be great
Life Lesson #17: Find your inspiration. What moves you? What means so much to you that it brings out the best in you? It doesn't have to be anything over the top; just something that motivates you; it may even always be changing. As a wannabe artist I have to find that inspiration; otherwise I don't have anything to put on paper; paint on canvas; or sculpt in clay. But for me it isn't just fo...r art- my inspiration helps me thru life; gives me hope. Today while I watched auditions for American Idol (only time I'll ever watch that show lmao) there was a girl that had just been diagnosed bipolar. After becoming depressed; she overcame and found her inspiration on life with music and singing- she has an amazing voice. It got to me because I know two bipolar people; I can't imagine it's always so easy to deal with. I'm only guessing though, since I wouldn't have known if they hadn't told me- in my eyes there is absolutely nothing wrong with them- heck I like the bipolar girl I know more than I like a lot of people :D But it's things like this that inspire me. Seeing others be the best they can be and do something extraordinary- I wonder: why can't I do something like that? Simple answer: Who says I can't? I can sure as hell try. We're all capable of amazing things.
Life Lesson #16: Violence is never the answer. Now I know a lot of people would disagree but I'm just basing this off of my experience. Take it or leave it I'm not trying to sway you :) But fighting for peace is like gorging yourself to lose weight. Does hurting someone else for your gain, end things? No- it just leads to more fighting and hard feelings. Even after all the fighting is over- gu...ess what? You still have to come up with some way to make peace after the struggle. I have never once gotten into a fistfight to solve a problem- hell I've never gotten into a fight (that's the one thing that bugs my friends :D) I've either resolved it or lived with it without choking someone into submission. Anyone who knows me knows I'm more of the laid back; go-with-the-flow type of guy (I am an islander :P). There's also the golden rule- treat others like you want to be treated- have you ever seriously wanted someone to beat the crap out of you because you didn't agree with them? What do you really want? If you want to live a more peaceful life it has to start with you. Just life and let live.
Life Lesson #15: Surround yourself with good people. And APPRECIATE these amazing people. I'm not saying join some conglomeration of saints and martyrs; what I'm saying is that you should be with people who bring out the best in you. They are those people that worry when you're not feeling so hot; that hold a spot for you in line, or even jump out of line to go find you. They're the people you... see, or want to see everyday, or at least more often than not :) A person that can make your day so much better. Friends, family, anyone else special in your life, let them know how much you mean to them- even to those who may not be lifechanging- you've gained something from knowing them. So this lesson comes with a challenge- I think these are only worthwhile if they can be applied. So for anyone who cares to; find those people that have helped/impacted/changed your life in some way, no matter how small or big; post on their walls a "(U&I):" followed by the thing/things they've done to make your days that much better. Ask them to make their own posts; maybe you'll get a few back :) But even if you can put a smile on just one person's face with these; it's one more person spreading their good vibes. And a smile's contagious; who knows? I'll end this lesson by following my advice and sending these out to all of you :) Peace and goodwill all around
Life Lesson #14: Make the most of every moment you have. I have had a lesson similar to this; but a friend named David got me to think about this again. Here's his words he quoted- I'm just quoting his quote :) "Yesterday is history, and the future is a mystery; but today is a gift; that is why it's called the present!" -David- and- Kung Fu Panda's Master Oogway. The point is enjoy it all. Lea...rn from the bad days in our past, and cherish the memories of our good days- thats what history is for: to look back on. As for today- live it to the fullest! After all you'll have another day like to day- it is a gift- always surprising us and always unique. About the future; don't fret too much about it- if you make the most of the gift you get today; what do you have to worry about from the future? Sure you can try and be prepared for it- nothing wrong with that- but we'll never know for sure what can happen. But hey it's your life live the way you want to- Most people won't argue with that much. We've all got potential; and we all can define just how much
Life Lesson #13: Stay Golden. Ever talked to the older generation? For the most part they are so full of life and somehow manage to stay positive when they probably have the most reasons to be gloomy. An old lady I walk to her car after church is probably the best part of my Saturday (kind of pathetic but whatever :D) she's so happy and funny she can always put a smile on my face. They know ho...w to have fun; no matter how old they are on the outside; they still can stay so young at heart. It's kind of ironic because we sometimes lose that youngness in our growing up phase; yet will probably get it back when we're old and gray. Why wait till then? You can be mature and still be young at heart; do whatever makes you happy, have fun, go ahead and play around, do what makes you smile, makes you laugh- who care's if it's what you loved as a kid- there's no shame in something if it's what you love. Adam Sandler once said if we ever met a kid version of ourselves they'd kick our asses for turning the way we did. No one has to grow dull and lifeless to be "mature", that's not what the word means. Just enjoy life: We don't stop having fun because we grow old; we grow old because we stop having fun.
Life Lesson #12: Live well, laugh often. Don't take things too seriously all of the time; some people are so hotheaded; and what for? I see all this drama on fb, though I know I've had my moments; that and I did just graduate high school :) But is it really always worth it? Hearts broken, friends lost, trust gone; why not relax a little and put everyone at ease? I've come acrossed some crazy th...ings in my life; like how a smile can make you wanna smile too or how laughing with someone can make you feel so much better. I've also put this too the test- if you really pretend that you're happy, soon enough you don't have to anymore- you just feel good. We decide how we react to our day; why not see the glass half full? Good feelings are infectious. If you're feeling down, try smiling or laughing about it and see what happens- they say a picture's worth a thousand words; but the smile in the frame is priceless.
Life Lesson #11: Give everything your all. Everyone says give 110%, but to be honest I don't believe that. As a side note I want to say that I'm not trying to tell any of you how to live your life; I'm just sharing my experiences; you can choose to like it or leave it. I don't want to force anyone into anything. Back to the lesson; like I said- no 110%. There was a saying in Cross Country and... Track & Field: You can't exceed 100. They say it all the time- my kickass Coach Buhrley was the main advocate. He always said 110% is for those 90%'ers feeling better about going the extra 10. I believed him- especially on those days when I lay on the ground gasping for breath; I had just pushed myself harder than I thought possible. It wasn't past my limits; I just wasn't used to going that far. It was one of the best feelings in the world. All I can say is put everything you possibly can into whatever you do; then you have no regrets. Live like there's no tomorrow; love like you've never lost; and laugh like all your dreams came true- Chances are if you do, some of them just might.
Life Lesson #10: Pay attention!!!! Nothing deep or spiritual about this one- just watch yourself! Anyone see the go-daddy commercial with the new hot chick in the office? Everyone's bumping into things and dropping stuff? Yeah we do that without the aide of eyecandy :D Whether it's slipping on ice (me!), bumping into people (me on another day lmao), or worse things like car accidents or O.D.'ing; just pay attention and maybe we can avoid some of these things. Pay attention to others too; whether it's a teacher for a major class; you're parents trying to help you out; or that kid who just needs a friend. Contrary to popular belief there are people that care what happens to you. Don't let them down
Life Lesson #9: Never give up. Even if things look bad now, there will be better days ahead of you- and with the good and the bad there will always be people there for you helping you get past all of it. There's always a light at the end of the tunnel- you just have to keep on moving thru it. Don't ever give up; only to find you were so close to the end; its times like that you wish you had pushed thru. This is something I've learned and relearned many times in my life; whether it was in Cross Country running thru the mountains for 8 miles; deciding whether to drop a class or not; or even whether to bother trying to have a good day. Things weren't always so great at first; but they hardly ever end up being so horrible to end with. Don't give in, and don't give up. Don't be a could-have, it's much better shooting to be a will-be. When the river is up against you; Just keep swimming :)
Life Lesson #8: Honesty is the best policy. It's better to have a horrible truth than a blissful lie. Many of you know me personally and know I didn't have a perfect life- hell I was a teenager too- I'd lied, snuck around, ignored my parents, not followed the rules; whatever else you can think of. But I have learned if you have to lie about something then it's probably not worth doing anyways. Besides that; a lie will almost always come out into the light; unless that lie is to yourself. Never be ashamed of anything- don't be afraid of how others will react to you- just be yourself: honest and true. You should never hide from other people; especially those good feelings. I'm not saying you have to tell everyone what you think of them- don't be an a-hole :) but Don't be afraid to love or care or show compassion; if you do that then others can be sincere with you as well. No matter who we are most of us do have an instince for self-preservation, so if we are open to others, they won't be too closed with us. And chances are; the truth isn't that bad- there can be beauty in a few simple worlds. Go out there; Tell the world who you are, show us who you can be.
Life Lesson #7: Seek out the good, even as you're staring down the bad. We all have bad days, sure. But why? What's stopping us from having an amazing time? Most of the time its our own self getting in the way; we're not open to the possibilities. There's always a silver lining; whether it's with your friends, or family, or even just seeing the sunlight; there's always something to brighten up your day if you look hard enough. In my life I've learned the hard way: I have fought with my family- for nothing, I realized family is always there for you; I've been depressed and angry, but found happiness in my crazy friends- I also took to my artwork and exercising to alleviate me. I also was heartbroken for awhile; till a girl named Ambrya hunted me down :D. Through those, probably the hardest times in my life, I found a person/people who turned everything around; or something to make my day; and if a guy with my luck can find that; it's a given that anyone can :). So when you're "finding yourself stuck out on a ledge.... Just give it one more try". As we're staring over it, what we don't see is the person behind us ready to catch us if we fell. There's always someone or something there for you. Just look for that ray of hope and you'll find it even in the darkest room.
Life Lesson #6: Carpe Diem. It's a Latin phrase meaning "seize the day". We never know when our last day will be, when we could kick the bucket- or even when someone else's last day is. Don't waste time where there's time to be spent. Life's too short not too enjoy it; sure most of us have jobs and might go to school right? But that's only so we have a better quality of life; don't focus so much on that, that you lose out on nights with your friends, hanging out with the family, enjoying a perfect stranger's smile, don't be too self-absorbed either that you can't see happiness a few footsteps away. I've wasted more time than I care to mention that I could have spent with my family, or friends, or a girl; even times I could have spent alone being perfectly happy, that I spent instead doing nothing to change my situation. "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one just remembers to turn on the light"- the man who said it wasn't real; but the idea is never more true. We can choose to flick the switch; We decide how our days end up; make the most of it.
Life Lesson #5: For the few (but important) girls in my life- or any girl for that matter. You all deserve the proper respect. In general you ladies deserve the best out of us guys (except certain cases- but innocent till proven guilty :D). They say chivalry is dead, but I don't see it as chivalry, I think it as being nice to someone who SHOULD be important in any guy's life; whether it's your mom, girlfriend, spouse, friends; what would you be without them? In simple terms: you wouldn't be anything. Dont' backtalk (moms, aunts, etc), Don't insult girls; don't dare raise a fist to them! Guys hold the doors open for them, walk them to their car (hell I even do that for an old lady at my church), bring them flowers and cards on those special days. Let them be the last person you talk to before you sleep, treat them like a queen, tell them how great they are. Who cares if it's sappy or corny; it's the thought that counts right? If they are a woman worth doing those things for then they are a woman that can appreciate the sentiment of your kindness. Guys be good to the girls in your life; after all they include mothers, sisters, grandmas, cousins, aunts, daughters, wives, girlfriends, best friends, heck even strangers (doctors, nurses?) can wind up important in your life. Guys; be good to our better halves. Ladies; we love ya :)
Life Lesson #4: Don't expect unrealistic things from people. Don't expect perfection. We all have our best friends; or family; maybe a lover; everyone expects you to do everything right, or at least their way. I've learned a long time ago you can't do every little thing correctly, we can try, but to err is to be human- We can't have it all. Learn to appreciate a person, and yourself, for all your flaws, or else you'll just be left disappointed. We are meant to mess up, I'd say that's perfect in itself- it makes us who we are. We're all just perfect mistakes.
Life Lesson #3: Don't miss out on the little things in life. So many times we're looking only for the next big thing to come our way; but what about the little things that we let pass us by? What about a smile from a perfect stranger, or a random act of kindness from people we care for? If you're sitting just gazing at the sun; first off you'll go blind. Second off you won't see everything under the sun. You'll miss the shine of the dew on the morning grass, or the sparkling pearly snow. You won't see the birds in the trees, and the smiles of the little kids running around. You will be ignorant to the people that care about you, or that person who's trying to catch your eye. I've missed out on a lot of things I would rather have done, for instance spending more time with my family when I visited Guam, instead of focusing so much to get back to Utah. I regret it. Don't lose on the little things. Don't run too fast, huffing to the finish line that you miss out on breathing in some fresh air.
Life Lesson #2: Don't turn a cold shoulder to someone who may just want a warm smile. We see lots of people in our day-to-day lives; we see that loner sitting by himself, that hobo on the street, that stuck up girl who gets all the attention. But is that what they really are? Maybe that loner is too shy to talk to anyone, maybe that hobo go attacked by the IRS unfairly, or that stuck up girl having a not-so-great life after school over. We judge people by first glance, but really you never really know- people are hardly ever set out to be the bad guy- they just want someone to care. If it's any consolation most people will settle for what's in their best interests, which never refuses a friendly face. A smile can work miracles, so put it to good use.
Life Lesson #1: Be true to yourself. Everyday people are judging you, nothing can change that. They see the awkward smile you flash when you're nervous; or the mischievous look you get around your supposedly "shady" friends. You're the bud of everyone's jokes, or the cause of their gossip. They pick out the best or the worst in what they see, and most people are fine with stopping at that and never digging any deeper. But you know who you are; even if you don't think you do; who else would? You know the what makes you happy, who makes your days better, what you believe, what you aspire; think about it and look in the mirror. At the end of the day the only person who can really see who you are is staring right back at you. Flash that honest man or that courageous woman a smile, and know that if all else fails; that person is there for you.
Thanks Josh.
Life Lesson #21: Make yourself a priority. Everybody stresses about impressing that certain someone- or just trying to impress everyone. They feel they aren't worth it if they can't be praised by the masses. But it doesn't really matter who else cares about you- as long as you care about yourself- someone will like you just for that. Hell I can say with almost 100% certainty that I'm not at th...e top of anyone else's list. I can't make myself be the favorite, go-to guy for everything. I'm not the person that gets 200 LIKES or comments on fb, or 30 girls hitting me up at night. I'm single, going thru college, working, making my way thru life. I can't place myself at the top of anyone's list; anyone except for mine. At the end of the day the person who's always around is the person looking at you in your reflection. If you can make that person happy; then there's no stopping what else you can do. Everybody has something, or many things that make them unique and amazing; accept who you are and make the most out of those incredible gifts you've been given.
Life Lesson #20: Acceptance. Has anyone ever seen that kid always sitting by himself at lunch? Or that person standing in the corner during break? Well that was me. Back in elementary and jr. high. Now I have friends from all walks of life- and you know what most of them have in common with each other? Nothing really- except I was friends with them and they were human. But how much more do you need to accept someone? Take the people that inspired this: Adam is one of the guys I play yugioh with- that's how I met him; but aside from that he's got a lot of other great qualities. Ambrya I met thru Fb..... kind of- I sort of was oblivious in high school. She's more honest and caring than most people I know. David used to be a rival of mine- but after doing some growing up he's one of my best friends. As for Curtis, Brandon, and Andrew? We're all basically misfits- well at least in high school- but there was something that we had in common with each other- with everyone I've listed. They were all accepting. Most people just write me off; but for the ones that don't- I have friends who are skaters, druggees, goths, preppies, jocks, nerds, geeks, from all over. To most people those things just don't add up; that's where the cliques come from. But for some it makes perfect sense. We didn't have all the same interests but we take each other for who that person is- just another friendly face. Not a one has tried to change me in any way (except for a mishap with a mullet that was completely deserving :D). I'm fortunate to have met each and every one of them. We're always so selfconscious about who our friends are.... why? A person is a person no matter what they look like on the outside. Judge a person by first getting to know them and see what's inside. Don't be so critical that you miss out on the chance of a lifetime. You never know what's out there till you see it firsthand.
Life Lesson #19: Give credit where credit is due. People help you out all the time; show them they are appreciated. I have a confession: About half of these life lessons have been happening to me as I type them. I didn't need to drag other people into my problems so I never said anything; but I haven't been having an amazing few weeks (not going into too much detail). But thru all of the supp...ort, and encouragement from all of you- not to mention hearing about how I could help or make the rest of you happy- gave me something to take pride in. I've said before helping others makes you happy- it really does- at least for this guy :). I found my way out.
Life Lesson #18: Don't be ashamed to ask for help. Never let pride be your downfall- we all have our strong and weak points; and for every one of them there's someone who can balance it out. We're never really alone if we just look in the right place; there's always someone who's there for you. So with that I just have to say; I need help :) I've kinda been braindead the last few days as to what to make into a life lesson.....so if anyone has any suggestions? That'd be amazing...... otherwise you may not see any of these for a bit :/ sorry. But any help would be great
Life Lesson #17: Find your inspiration. What moves you? What means so much to you that it brings out the best in you? It doesn't have to be anything over the top; just something that motivates you; it may even always be changing. As a wannabe artist I have to find that inspiration; otherwise I don't have anything to put on paper; paint on canvas; or sculpt in clay. But for me it isn't just fo...r art- my inspiration helps me thru life; gives me hope. Today while I watched auditions for American Idol (only time I'll ever watch that show lmao) there was a girl that had just been diagnosed bipolar. After becoming depressed; she overcame and found her inspiration on life with music and singing- she has an amazing voice. It got to me because I know two bipolar people; I can't imagine it's always so easy to deal with. I'm only guessing though, since I wouldn't have known if they hadn't told me- in my eyes there is absolutely nothing wrong with them- heck I like the bipolar girl I know more than I like a lot of people :D But it's things like this that inspire me. Seeing others be the best they can be and do something extraordinary- I wonder: why can't I do something like that? Simple answer: Who says I can't? I can sure as hell try. We're all capable of amazing things.
Life Lesson #16: Violence is never the answer. Now I know a lot of people would disagree but I'm just basing this off of my experience. Take it or leave it I'm not trying to sway you :) But fighting for peace is like gorging yourself to lose weight. Does hurting someone else for your gain, end things? No- it just leads to more fighting and hard feelings. Even after all the fighting is over- gu...ess what? You still have to come up with some way to make peace after the struggle. I have never once gotten into a fistfight to solve a problem- hell I've never gotten into a fight (that's the one thing that bugs my friends :D) I've either resolved it or lived with it without choking someone into submission. Anyone who knows me knows I'm more of the laid back; go-with-the-flow type of guy (I am an islander :P). There's also the golden rule- treat others like you want to be treated- have you ever seriously wanted someone to beat the crap out of you because you didn't agree with them? What do you really want? If you want to live a more peaceful life it has to start with you. Just life and let live.
Life Lesson #15: Surround yourself with good people. And APPRECIATE these amazing people. I'm not saying join some conglomeration of saints and martyrs; what I'm saying is that you should be with people who bring out the best in you. They are those people that worry when you're not feeling so hot; that hold a spot for you in line, or even jump out of line to go find you. They're the people you... see, or want to see everyday, or at least more often than not :) A person that can make your day so much better. Friends, family, anyone else special in your life, let them know how much you mean to them- even to those who may not be lifechanging- you've gained something from knowing them. So this lesson comes with a challenge- I think these are only worthwhile if they can be applied. So for anyone who cares to; find those people that have helped/impacted/changed your life in some way, no matter how small or big; post on their walls a "(U&I):" followed by the thing/things they've done to make your days that much better. Ask them to make their own posts; maybe you'll get a few back :) But even if you can put a smile on just one person's face with these; it's one more person spreading their good vibes. And a smile's contagious; who knows? I'll end this lesson by following my advice and sending these out to all of you :) Peace and goodwill all around
Life Lesson #14: Make the most of every moment you have. I have had a lesson similar to this; but a friend named David got me to think about this again. Here's his words he quoted- I'm just quoting his quote :) "Yesterday is history, and the future is a mystery; but today is a gift; that is why it's called the present!" -David- and- Kung Fu Panda's Master Oogway. The point is enjoy it all. Lea...rn from the bad days in our past, and cherish the memories of our good days- thats what history is for: to look back on. As for today- live it to the fullest! After all you'll have another day like to day- it is a gift- always surprising us and always unique. About the future; don't fret too much about it- if you make the most of the gift you get today; what do you have to worry about from the future? Sure you can try and be prepared for it- nothing wrong with that- but we'll never know for sure what can happen. But hey it's your life live the way you want to- Most people won't argue with that much. We've all got potential; and we all can define just how much
Life Lesson #13: Stay Golden. Ever talked to the older generation? For the most part they are so full of life and somehow manage to stay positive when they probably have the most reasons to be gloomy. An old lady I walk to her car after church is probably the best part of my Saturday (kind of pathetic but whatever :D) she's so happy and funny she can always put a smile on my face. They know ho...w to have fun; no matter how old they are on the outside; they still can stay so young at heart. It's kind of ironic because we sometimes lose that youngness in our growing up phase; yet will probably get it back when we're old and gray. Why wait till then? You can be mature and still be young at heart; do whatever makes you happy, have fun, go ahead and play around, do what makes you smile, makes you laugh- who care's if it's what you loved as a kid- there's no shame in something if it's what you love. Adam Sandler once said if we ever met a kid version of ourselves they'd kick our asses for turning the way we did. No one has to grow dull and lifeless to be "mature", that's not what the word means. Just enjoy life: We don't stop having fun because we grow old; we grow old because we stop having fun.
Life Lesson #12: Live well, laugh often. Don't take things too seriously all of the time; some people are so hotheaded; and what for? I see all this drama on fb, though I know I've had my moments; that and I did just graduate high school :) But is it really always worth it? Hearts broken, friends lost, trust gone; why not relax a little and put everyone at ease? I've come acrossed some crazy th...ings in my life; like how a smile can make you wanna smile too or how laughing with someone can make you feel so much better. I've also put this too the test- if you really pretend that you're happy, soon enough you don't have to anymore- you just feel good. We decide how we react to our day; why not see the glass half full? Good feelings are infectious. If you're feeling down, try smiling or laughing about it and see what happens- they say a picture's worth a thousand words; but the smile in the frame is priceless.
Life Lesson #11: Give everything your all. Everyone says give 110%, but to be honest I don't believe that. As a side note I want to say that I'm not trying to tell any of you how to live your life; I'm just sharing my experiences; you can choose to like it or leave it. I don't want to force anyone into anything. Back to the lesson; like I said- no 110%. There was a saying in Cross Country and... Track & Field: You can't exceed 100. They say it all the time- my kickass Coach Buhrley was the main advocate. He always said 110% is for those 90%'ers feeling better about going the extra 10. I believed him- especially on those days when I lay on the ground gasping for breath; I had just pushed myself harder than I thought possible. It wasn't past my limits; I just wasn't used to going that far. It was one of the best feelings in the world. All I can say is put everything you possibly can into whatever you do; then you have no regrets. Live like there's no tomorrow; love like you've never lost; and laugh like all your dreams came true- Chances are if you do, some of them just might.
Life Lesson #10: Pay attention!!!! Nothing deep or spiritual about this one- just watch yourself! Anyone see the go-daddy commercial with the new hot chick in the office? Everyone's bumping into things and dropping stuff? Yeah we do that without the aide of eyecandy :D Whether it's slipping on ice (me!), bumping into people (me on another day lmao), or worse things like car accidents or O.D.'ing; just pay attention and maybe we can avoid some of these things. Pay attention to others too; whether it's a teacher for a major class; you're parents trying to help you out; or that kid who just needs a friend. Contrary to popular belief there are people that care what happens to you. Don't let them down
Life Lesson #9: Never give up. Even if things look bad now, there will be better days ahead of you- and with the good and the bad there will always be people there for you helping you get past all of it. There's always a light at the end of the tunnel- you just have to keep on moving thru it. Don't ever give up; only to find you were so close to the end; its times like that you wish you had pushed thru. This is something I've learned and relearned many times in my life; whether it was in Cross Country running thru the mountains for 8 miles; deciding whether to drop a class or not; or even whether to bother trying to have a good day. Things weren't always so great at first; but they hardly ever end up being so horrible to end with. Don't give in, and don't give up. Don't be a could-have, it's much better shooting to be a will-be. When the river is up against you; Just keep swimming :)
Life Lesson #8: Honesty is the best policy. It's better to have a horrible truth than a blissful lie. Many of you know me personally and know I didn't have a perfect life- hell I was a teenager too- I'd lied, snuck around, ignored my parents, not followed the rules; whatever else you can think of. But I have learned if you have to lie about something then it's probably not worth doing anyways. Besides that; a lie will almost always come out into the light; unless that lie is to yourself. Never be ashamed of anything- don't be afraid of how others will react to you- just be yourself: honest and true. You should never hide from other people; especially those good feelings. I'm not saying you have to tell everyone what you think of them- don't be an a-hole :) but Don't be afraid to love or care or show compassion; if you do that then others can be sincere with you as well. No matter who we are most of us do have an instince for self-preservation, so if we are open to others, they won't be too closed with us. And chances are; the truth isn't that bad- there can be beauty in a few simple worlds. Go out there; Tell the world who you are, show us who you can be.
Life Lesson #7: Seek out the good, even as you're staring down the bad. We all have bad days, sure. But why? What's stopping us from having an amazing time? Most of the time its our own self getting in the way; we're not open to the possibilities. There's always a silver lining; whether it's with your friends, or family, or even just seeing the sunlight; there's always something to brighten up your day if you look hard enough. In my life I've learned the hard way: I have fought with my family- for nothing, I realized family is always there for you; I've been depressed and angry, but found happiness in my crazy friends- I also took to my artwork and exercising to alleviate me. I also was heartbroken for awhile; till a girl named Ambrya hunted me down :D. Through those, probably the hardest times in my life, I found a person/people who turned everything around; or something to make my day; and if a guy with my luck can find that; it's a given that anyone can :). So when you're "finding yourself stuck out on a ledge.... Just give it one more try". As we're staring over it, what we don't see is the person behind us ready to catch us if we fell. There's always someone or something there for you. Just look for that ray of hope and you'll find it even in the darkest room.
Life Lesson #6: Carpe Diem. It's a Latin phrase meaning "seize the day". We never know when our last day will be, when we could kick the bucket- or even when someone else's last day is. Don't waste time where there's time to be spent. Life's too short not too enjoy it; sure most of us have jobs and might go to school right? But that's only so we have a better quality of life; don't focus so much on that, that you lose out on nights with your friends, hanging out with the family, enjoying a perfect stranger's smile, don't be too self-absorbed either that you can't see happiness a few footsteps away. I've wasted more time than I care to mention that I could have spent with my family, or friends, or a girl; even times I could have spent alone being perfectly happy, that I spent instead doing nothing to change my situation. "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one just remembers to turn on the light"- the man who said it wasn't real; but the idea is never more true. We can choose to flick the switch; We decide how our days end up; make the most of it.
Life Lesson #5: For the few (but important) girls in my life- or any girl for that matter. You all deserve the proper respect. In general you ladies deserve the best out of us guys (except certain cases- but innocent till proven guilty :D). They say chivalry is dead, but I don't see it as chivalry, I think it as being nice to someone who SHOULD be important in any guy's life; whether it's your mom, girlfriend, spouse, friends; what would you be without them? In simple terms: you wouldn't be anything. Dont' backtalk (moms, aunts, etc), Don't insult girls; don't dare raise a fist to them! Guys hold the doors open for them, walk them to their car (hell I even do that for an old lady at my church), bring them flowers and cards on those special days. Let them be the last person you talk to before you sleep, treat them like a queen, tell them how great they are. Who cares if it's sappy or corny; it's the thought that counts right? If they are a woman worth doing those things for then they are a woman that can appreciate the sentiment of your kindness. Guys be good to the girls in your life; after all they include mothers, sisters, grandmas, cousins, aunts, daughters, wives, girlfriends, best friends, heck even strangers (doctors, nurses?) can wind up important in your life. Guys; be good to our better halves. Ladies; we love ya :)
Life Lesson #4: Don't expect unrealistic things from people. Don't expect perfection. We all have our best friends; or family; maybe a lover; everyone expects you to do everything right, or at least their way. I've learned a long time ago you can't do every little thing correctly, we can try, but to err is to be human- We can't have it all. Learn to appreciate a person, and yourself, for all your flaws, or else you'll just be left disappointed. We are meant to mess up, I'd say that's perfect in itself- it makes us who we are. We're all just perfect mistakes.
Life Lesson #3: Don't miss out on the little things in life. So many times we're looking only for the next big thing to come our way; but what about the little things that we let pass us by? What about a smile from a perfect stranger, or a random act of kindness from people we care for? If you're sitting just gazing at the sun; first off you'll go blind. Second off you won't see everything under the sun. You'll miss the shine of the dew on the morning grass, or the sparkling pearly snow. You won't see the birds in the trees, and the smiles of the little kids running around. You will be ignorant to the people that care about you, or that person who's trying to catch your eye. I've missed out on a lot of things I would rather have done, for instance spending more time with my family when I visited Guam, instead of focusing so much to get back to Utah. I regret it. Don't lose on the little things. Don't run too fast, huffing to the finish line that you miss out on breathing in some fresh air.
Life Lesson #2: Don't turn a cold shoulder to someone who may just want a warm smile. We see lots of people in our day-to-day lives; we see that loner sitting by himself, that hobo on the street, that stuck up girl who gets all the attention. But is that what they really are? Maybe that loner is too shy to talk to anyone, maybe that hobo go attacked by the IRS unfairly, or that stuck up girl having a not-so-great life after school over. We judge people by first glance, but really you never really know- people are hardly ever set out to be the bad guy- they just want someone to care. If it's any consolation most people will settle for what's in their best interests, which never refuses a friendly face. A smile can work miracles, so put it to good use.
Life Lesson #1: Be true to yourself. Everyday people are judging you, nothing can change that. They see the awkward smile you flash when you're nervous; or the mischievous look you get around your supposedly "shady" friends. You're the bud of everyone's jokes, or the cause of their gossip. They pick out the best or the worst in what they see, and most people are fine with stopping at that and never digging any deeper. But you know who you are; even if you don't think you do; who else would? You know the what makes you happy, who makes your days better, what you believe, what you aspire; think about it and look in the mirror. At the end of the day the only person who can really see who you are is staring right back at you. Flash that honest man or that courageous woman a smile, and know that if all else fails; that person is there for you.
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