"The Princess Diaries" is a cinematic work of art, no if’s and’s or but’s about it. How many times growing up did I watch it, only to dream of finding out I too was a princess (Hopefully of a badass nation like Genovia), of getting a transforming makeover (Don’t worry, I tried to use every face wash and hair product CVS could offer. My family promptly banned me from shopping there), and of kissing a cute boy who actually had a crush on you in a beautiful garden with lights and fountains and perhaps the girliest song of all time in the background (JK, boys have cooties!). But what I didn’t realize was that while "The Princess Diaries" inspired me to dream, it also taught me many life lessons that I still use today (First among these being how to sing the Genovia national anthem because that is a straight banger).
1. It's OK to roll up late sometimes.
Ok, this is maybe bad advice, but it's something that I use to justify my constant tardiness. The party don't start 'til I walk in.
2. Think before you speak.
I think that it's really easy to forget what a profound effect words can have on people, and this goes both ways. It is never bad to be mindful of what you are saying and how you say it.
3. Be a strong independent woman.
Queen Clarisse slays. Girl is running a country on her own like a boss, and she is unapologetic about being a woman with morals, values, and beliefs. She teaches Mia that she can do anything and get anything she wants all by herself.
4. Make sure you remember what truly matters.
It's easy to get caught up in tests and jobs and grades and just life. But it is important to remember that, as cliche as it sounds (I'm cringing writing this), life is about the journey. It's about the people and relationships and doing what makes you happy, so don't forget it.
5. Manners (and being polite) are some of those things that matter too.
It is so easy to be polite, courteous, and considerate of others. Everyone should do it.
6. Hold your head high and be confident.
Life is too short to be afraid and to not be proud of who you are, what you do, and what you care about. Thank you for being here today!
7. Be yourself but always be kind.
People can be incredibly judgmental, and it's so unnecessary. What makes someone a freak and another person cool, and who decides? Everyone should be allowed to be themselves and that should be ok because there is never any excuse to treat another person poorly. #lanagotconed
8. Set a good example and have high standards for yourself.
Be the kind of person that other people look up to. Be the kind of person you would want to be friends with. If you can't be that person, how can you expect anyone else to be?
9. Never judge a book by its cover.
I promise that you will almost never know a person's whole story. Like maybe if you have a drunk heart to heart in a fraternity basement at 3AM or you play a particularly vicious game of never have I ever. But just remember that everyone has their own battles, that looks can be deceiving, and everyone deserves a chance. Don't overlook people because everyone can contribute something.
10. Can I get an amen.
