40 Lessons Learned

40 days ago, I had an idea to write a lesson a day about some things I've learned in my 40 years, here on earth. As I have spent time in reflection, I am grateful for all my seasons because I am a better person for having LIVED! I hope you will find some wisdom in the following list.

​I look forward to many more years!  Here's to 40!

1. Never take your day for granted. Make it count.
2. Changing your routine can bring joy. 
3. Hold on to your dreams and don't let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do.
4. Having faith and keeping the faith are two different things. One requires intentional work.
5. Valuing myself and what I have to offer is a part of embracing who God wants me to be.
6. I matter.
7. Sometimes activity can make us feel like we’re making a difference. This isn’t always the case. Synergy is where it’s at. 
8. There is nothing wrong with regrouping and starting over.
9. Expect the unexpected with God. He delivers!
10. Don’t be afraid to believe. It’s never a waste of time to do so.
11. Be careful not to be in motion but going nowhere. (Double negative intended.)
12. Once you find your people, thank God.  They will have your back and hold you up. 
13. Sometimes it takes effort to breathe but you still gotta do it. It’s about survival. 
14. Don’t let your insecurities keep you from sharing who you are with the world! You are a gift!
15. Try to enjoy the good times as much as possible and make good memories. 
16. If there is hope, there is possibility.
17. I can’t be anyone else; I can only be me. 
18. Be gracious especially to yourself.
19. Love hard but if/when you realize the relationship is harmful to you, it’s ok to let go. 
20. Don’t focus on your haters.
21. Support others but don’t forget to invest in your own self.
22. I am worth it. 
23. Go beyond what people say and look at what they do; their actions or non-actions will display their hearts. 
24. When you’ve given friendships all you have and it still fails, walk away knowing that you gave it your all.
25. Writing is just talking on paper. “Talking” is therapeutic. 
26. Stop saving your China for a special occasion. Use them just because. 
27. Greatness isn’t something that happens overnight it’s established through a lifetime of living.
28. Just because you aren’t racing doesn’t mean others aren’t competing with you. 
29. Don’t let fear keep you from adventure. You will miss out on life.
30. Let God write your story. 
31. I may not know everything but that doesn’t mean I should ignore checks in my spirit.
32. Even if I feel lonely, I’m never alone.
33. Imitation isn’t always flattering. Be unique!
34. God is a God of righteousness and justice. You can’t take one without the other. 
35. When you “don’t see color,” you don’t see me.
36. Forgiving may be difficult but forgetting can be even harder. 
37. Life is beautiful whether I believe/feel it or not.
38. It doesn’t matter how much time has elapsed, true friends can pick up where they left off. 
39. Surround yourself with people who want to see you winning, succeeding, and happy in life. 
40. Sometimes, you just have to wait and see what happens. ​ Photo Credit: Casha Mosley

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