Life is all about learning from your past, and often the things we learn in these times create great advice for times to come.

1. Not everyone understands sadness. I know sometimes it feels like the whole world is on your shoulders and the day just isn't going how you planned. While friends are a good source of comfort in this time, just remember they're never going to fully understand what exactly you feel because they are not you. Some people in general will never be able to fathom what you're feeling, and that's okay, too. Don't be too hard on them.

2. Worry about yourself more than others around you. For example, when waiting at the bus stop, it’s okay to smoke cigarettes, and it’s okay to not smoke cigarettes, but it is not okay for you to tell someone if they can smoke cigarettes or not. They know they are not healthy, and they probably think of it often. Just walk away. Creating a scene really isn't going to benefit you or them, and you'll probably forget about it by the end of the day.

3. Never touch anyone else’s clothes at the laundromat. Especially in college. People don't really like that.

4. It's okay to miss the people who hurt you. It’s hard to get over people sometimes, no matter what they did to you. It's perfectly human and normal to miss them, but one day you'll realize you're over it. It takes time, healing, and patience. You'll be okay.

5. When your grandmother asks you how you are, be honest. Or anyone in your family really. They're guaranteed to love you in the long run, so you might as well tell the truth.

6. Never be afraid to say “no” even after you’ve said “yes." This applies in all situations in life.

7. If someone tells you art isn’t art, prove them wrong. Never stop creating things, even if other people don't like them.

8. Remember people by their eye color, not their clothes. But don't make it creepy please. Basically just remember them for how they look, make eye contact in conversations, and be present. Fashion can change.

9. You’re allowed to like things other people don't like. But never bash on someone else for something they do like.

10. Don’t lie that you don’t have gum when you really do. They'll probably return the favor later.

11. Turn your phone off every once in a while. You won't miss anything too major trust me. Sometimes disconnecting can be really good for the soul.

12. If you want a tattoo, don’t let anyone tell you not to get it. And don’t talk someone out of a tattoo they really want. Unless they are like drunkenly vomiting up Olive Garden bread sticks or something, then don't let them do it.