Twenty years is a long time. Twenty trips around the sun, over seven thousand sunsets, and if you're like me, about a million cups of coffee. 20 years old is still learning how to be an adult while still holding hands with your child-like self.
Twenty years is a pretty big chunk of time to learn a lot and do a lot. At the same time though, twenty years is not very much time. It's nowhere near enough time to do and learn all that there is, but there are a few things I pray you learn by 20.
1. You are blessed.
Beyond what you will ever understand and with more than you know.
2. What you do matters.
Do not ever underestimate the power you have to make a difference in someone's life. It does not need to be anything monumental, but a smile or a 'thinking of you' test goes a long way.
3. Communicate.
Being passive aggressive get you nowhere but frustrated. Be open and honest; I promise it will serve you well.
4. Quality over quantity applies to everything.
People, work, words, dessert, actions, conversations, everything.
5. Money can’t buy it all.
It can buy some pretty amazing experiences, but it won't buy you the people to share them with.
6. Your mom still gives the best hugs.
Always.
7. A handwritten note means more than you think.
Pay the 75 cents for stamps, it's worth it.
8. You are a role-model.
Siblings, co-workers, friends, peers. Like it or not, someone looks up to you.
9. Truth wins every time.
And it always sounds better early-on.
10. Grace is always worth it.
Give grace to others, and accept the grace freely given to you by the One who created you.
11. Memories aren’t made looking at your phone.
Stop scrolling through that person's highlight reel and start living your own.
12. Never miss a chance to say ‘I love you.’
You will never regret saying it one more time.
13. It’s not all up to you.
Deep breath, and stop stressing about what you cannot control.
14. Joy is a radiant thing.
Joy is a beautiful thing that comes straight from the Lord. And what a stunning quality it is.
15. Love is a choice and a gift.
The most wonderful gift there is.
16. You were created by Love, for Love.
By Him, for Him. In Grace, to give Grace. In His name, to bring Him glory.
17. Don’t speak in anger.
Wait, pray, reflect, then proceed.
18. Visiting a grandparent is not an inconvenience.
It will bring you joy, but nowhere near as much joy as it will bring them.
19. Laugh at your mistakes.
Learn from them, and laugh when you fall (because you will fall).
20. Be humble.
Humble in success and without bitterness in defeat.