Life is constantly teaching us lessons through the worst and best times, but there are some lessons that just stick with us. These are a few that I have learned and use on a daily basis, for the most part.
1. Forgive and forget
If there's one thing I can thank my Aunt Karen for teaching me, it's learning to forgive and forget. I was taught this lesson as a child in her daycare from day one, and it has helped me let go of grudges against others and forgive mistakes. Although there might be some expectations to this rule, it has still helped me let go of negative energies and start over with people to create better friendships. Forgiving and forgetting has even helped me with my own mistakes and wrong doings. It has opened my heart and mind to excuse and overlook simple problems for a brighter future.
2. Laugh even at the stupidest things
Laughter and joy help heal the soul, and I try to find something to laugh at every day. Even on a bad day, I'll look up Youtube videos of puppies chasing their tails just to laugh. Just something to uplift a heavy day can be a game changer for a negative mood and has helped me in life so much.
3. Never skip family gatherings
No matter how awkward it might be to see distant family after a long time, or no matter how much sleeping in sounded better than that family cookout, skipping family parties is something I try not to do. Especially when there is distant family because I'll only get to see them at funerals and weddings. Seeing my family is something that has helped me get through life because in the end, they're there for me no matter how distant they might be. Family is ready to love and support each other regardless of how much time or distance was put between everyone. Plus there's always loads of food at family parties so who would want to miss that?
4. Hug your loved ones
Life is unpredictable, and you never know when you'll see them again, so hug them while you're there. I come from a family that hugs all the time. We hug when we meet up somewhere, we hug when we leave somewhere, and we hug for no reason at all. When I was younger this was super annoying, but after losing family members I understood the importance of a 5-second hug. I also understood that I could never get another 5 seconds with my loved ones in heaven, and that's why moments are so valuable.
5. Sometimes friends are just as important as family
A lot of people will tell you that blood is thicker than water, but what they don't realize is sometimes that's not the case for everyone. Sometimes friends are there for someone better than a family member and that's okay. Sometimes friends become family through tough nights and cheerful days. The most crucial thing to remember is who is there with support and love in countless situations. Those are the people that are kept close to the heart.
6. Money doesn't mean anything, time does
Last summer, I worked 3 jobs and didn't see friends or family for two months. Although my bank account was very happy, I was miserable. I had the money to buy my happiness with clothes and shoes but had nowhere to wear the new things I bought because I was consistently in a work uniform. I missed movie nights and dinners with close family, and I missed hanging out around a campfire with friends. If there's one thing that I remember to do now is to not overwork myself and always make time for people that I love.
7. Say "I love you" more
If there is one thing I wish I could do for my friends and family in heaven, is say "I love you" one last time. I swear those three words can not be said enough to those you truly care about. When it comes down to it, life is too short; however, it is not short enough that such a simple sentence can't be muttered before leaving the house or going to bed. Telling those I care about that I love them is something I do every day for every reason imaginable.
