5 THINGS 23 HAS TAUGHT ME
This year has been filled with everlasting memories. Along the way, I've learned a couple things that are worth sharing:
PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE
Ain't that the truth, I don't think I would have made it another year if I hadn't practiced the beautiful art of patience. The truth is, no one likes waiting for things to happen. As a society, we love quick results and a quick fix. Practicing patience has helped me in my personal and professional life. I've prayed, wished, and hoped for better outcomes based on the effort I was already putting in. I worked a little harder and slowly but surely I saw a remarkable difference. Especially when you're feeling defeated, you must remember nothing worth having comes easy. I promise that putting that extra bit of time and effort will be significantly beneficial.
CHANGE IS A GOOD THING AND INEVITABLE
Jumping into it I didn't know what to expect. This year I've endured so much change to the point where I couldn't even react I had to just go with the flow. From graduating college to moving into my own apartment, and working full-time I somehow maintained a social life as well. Importantly enough, change has allowed me to do whatever I want and be whoever I want. There is nothing following me or negatively defining me — you see, change allows for personal growth and development. Why is this important? Simply because nothing is meant to stay stagnant. The world around us is constantly changing and we adapt. We fall into trends with the seasons and quickly transition based on the weather and other factors. As scary or overwhelming as it can be, there is no choice but to embrace it and embark on your new journey. It'll be challenging but you're growing thicker skin, my dear. Let's evolve and become the best version our yourselves.
I AM GOOD ENOUGH
In a world where it's easier to practice self-loathe over self-love, I've constantly struggled with feeling like I am good enough. For as long as I can remember this insecurity has been a part of my everyday life. Constantly questioning every move and word. Quick to blame myself for what others have done to me. This is no way to live — life is entirely too short to live in darkness. This has probably been the most powerful thing I've learned throughout my 23 years. Don't credit those who have brought you down or made you feel like you don't equate. You are enough for any real man or woman. Those who don't see it, don't deserve to. Your health and happiness matter so stop worrying if you are pretty enough, skinny enough or even smart enough. You are and always will be enough... Keep your head up and that beautiful smile on your face.
SOME BRIDGES ARE MEANT TO BURN
I'm sure we're all familiar with the phrase "Don't burn bridges." Well, I've done a lot of bridge burning and I must say I don't feel as bad as I thought. While it’s nice to have an abundance of friends sometimes less is more. I’ve been through a bunch of “friends” but this year, in particular, I’ve really seen who is down for me. The older I get the smaller my circle is. This doesn’t bother me though. I’d rather have a strong pact than a weak army. My front line is diesel — you do for me as I do for you and we’re good. Bridges will burn and you can’t question it. God works in mysterious ways. Let go and let God. Cutting loose ends can feel so f*cking empowering.
I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH FEELINGS
We all have those selfish moments where we only regard our own feelings. I've learned you can't discount someone's feelings or form opinions on something that someone feels. Often I feel as though I may come off as dramatic but I've realized we can't take someone's feelings away from them. We may not wholeheartedly understand but who are we to belittle another person because of the way they feel. We are all going through things. As I write this, I’m realizing just how much I refer to myself. Let's try not to use the word "I," it is a selfish pronoun used to describe oneself. It usually goes along with feelings, expressions and/or just personal statements or experiences in general. It will be challenging but it is doable. We will see how far it goes. A simple word can change a sentence structure completely or even the meaning as a whole. Using the word "I" gives us no room to think about others, we are so wrapped up with how we feel we don't take into account how anyone else may feel.
Oh 23, you've been interesting. Our relationship was one of the strongest, you've helped me to get in tune with myself and other things of that sort. Thanks for the ride, but I need to continue to grow and make more discoveries.
Hate to see you go, but I love to watch you leave.