By definition, a principle is a fundamental truth that serves as the foundation for a set of beliefs or behaviors in which we each live our lives by. Principles and values vary from individual to individual, and as we go through life, our principles and values may change, although, the general ideas stay the same.

I try to live my life in accordance with eight core virtues: open-mindedness, honesty, kindness, respect, integrity, commitment, and loyalty.

I will always hear someone out. I am a strong believer in second chances when appropriate. I am an incredibly loyal person and was raised to always follow through on previous commitments, even if something more ideal comes along.

I treat everyone I meet with tact and dignity because a little kindness can go a long way. I am also making more of an effort to be completely open and honest with my loved ones, simply because it is the right thing to do.

I used to be quite private and secretive, as a defense mechanism to protect myself from possible judgment and rejection.

When anyone asks me what religion I belong to, I tell them that I grew up Roman Catholic and that I will go to church with my family for Christmas and Easter, more out of familial tradition than religious belief.

I do enjoy the people that make up the community of my church, however, I consider myself more spiritual than religious.

The church I grew up in was extremely liberal and accepting, unlike other more traditional Catholic churches, so I had an easier time being open to Catholicism growing up, though that belief has changed as I've gotten older and been exposed to other ideas.

Point being, when it comes to such a sensitive topic as religion, I try to reiterate and emphasize that I have absolutely no problem with what other people believe. I just ask that my beliefs be treated with the same equal respect that I give out to others.

This concept is universal in my life. I am an extremely liberal individual and as long as everyone is healthy and safe, and their decisions are in line with what their best interests are, I will never judge.

I will never give them a hard time. I will not tell them that I don’t agree with what they’re doing just because I personally wouldn’t do it. I also won’t tell them what they should do, either. That is for them to decide.

I’ve learned now that it is better to be my complete, honest self with everyone I encounter, detaching myself from others’ negativity, as opposed to being fake.

I aim to live a life filled with light and love; I hope to inspire others to do the same. Only then, can our lives in this world be simpler and happier. Through treating others with compassion, and most importantly, treating ourselves with compassion, can we really make a difference.

Even though it can be difficult, it is so important to do what is right, even when no one is looking. Without my guiding principles, I would not have the foundation to be my best self, which I am always aspiring to be.