Although being the oldest of four grandchildren isn’t always a blast, I’ve learned over the years it is a blessing. Not only do I get to watch my cousins grow into the wonderful people they are meant to be, but I’m also first to face the curve balls life throws at us, and share the lessons I learn as a result. So going into my senior year of high school, this is what I wish I could’ve read long ago.
- Cherish the time you have with your family. Yes, your siblings and parents will get on your nerves from time to time, but what you don’t know is they’re also going to give you the hardest laughs and happiest smiles of your life. You’re going to miss the chaos that accompanies family time when you’re locked in your room studying for hours or when you leave to go to camp for a month. Believe me, I know your phone and video games are quite entertaining, but consider putting the screen down every once in a while. Your social media and friends will be there tomorrow, but the memories you’re missing out on while watching Netflix won’t be. It's an incredible blessing to have people by our side to walk through life with us, and our time is the most precious gift we could give in return.
- Love deeply. The secret to love is opening your heart. Love yourself, family, friends, God, and life as much as you possibly can. You don’t know this yet, but everyone in your life teaches you something valuable; don’t miss the opportunity to learn something from them. The minute you begin to love deeply, you begin to enjoy life and appreciate the people who are a part of yours more than you could imagine. Love those who adore you, and love those who haven’t learned to love others, or even themselves, yet. Love your neighbors, your friends, and your enemies. I was once told to remember we are all children of God and made in his image; Love all of his children.
- Make God a priority. One regret I have is taking my time to make God the center of my life. It is vital to realize that you can not find happiness if you do not find God. The two go hand-in-hand. When life gets tough, which it inevitably will, always know you have a heavenly father who loves you and wants to be there for you. Eventually you will find yourself in situations where you’re tempted to stray away from God. It’s part of being human and a sinner. However, during these times remember that God wants to be a part of the messy areas of your life; He is even willing to get his hands dirty to pick you up and clean you off, you just have to let Him. Please know you are not meant to live life on your own terms, but on His. You are not perfect, and He knows that because only He is. He is always going to love you, flaws and all. Always remember you can find comfort in Him and His word. Lastly, and most important of all, when times get hard know you can turn to God, and when times are going good make sure you thank him.
- Respect others. Not everyone you meet is meant to be your friend, and not everyone is always going to be nice to you. Even when it’s hard to forgive someone and be the better person, please always try. Respect those who aren’t always kind to you. Chances are they are struggling, and maybe they will learn from your kindness. Respect your parents. They are there to protect and love you, and even when you disagree with them, remember all they’ve done for you. Respect your siblings. They might be annoying now, but they will be your best friends later. Respect women. Please respect the beings that bring people into this word. Respect your friends. You only make a couple genuine friends in your lifetime, love them and always treat them well. And lastly, respect yourself. Don’t ever underestimate what amazing things you are capable of doing.
- Partying will not fix your problems. I know you will eventually be in a situation where you will be tempted to experiment with drinking/drugs or be in the presence of it. All I can say, is I hope when the time comes you remember what you are worth and that you’re strong enough to say no. It might look like fun at the time, or even harmless, but please remember you are not yourself when you drink. Alcohol changes you, compromises your judgement, and can put you in dangerous situations. Take it from someone who has seen people almost lose their life from trying to be like everyone else at a party, the consequences are not worth the "fun" you have under the influence. Lastly, please remember drinking won’t solve your problems. Being drunk can do nothing positive for you, and all of your worries and problems will still be there the next day. In fact, it might even add more problems because drinking usually comes with unwanted consequences.
Life is full of highs and lows, and as the oldest cousin the least I can do to repay the younger three for the ab-aching giggles, endless joy, and precious memories is offer some advice.
