Words of Advice

borrowed from Mishi's Gathering

Here are some of the things I would tell my younger self:

1. Yes, use the words 'fuck off' much more frequently
2. It is OK to dream, but it is up to you to make your dreams come true.
3. If you are not happy with your life, change it!
4. Fear is no excuse 
5. If you can't afford it, don't buy it.
6. Save!
7. Buying the cheapest is not always the best choice
8. Don't settle for second best
9. Never, ever excuse abuse of any kind. 
10. Don't waste time hanging with people who put you down
11. It is better to be alone than with someone who doesn't treat you right
12. Love your body and your mind - you only have them for a limited time
13. If you don't love you, how can you expect anyone else to?
14. It is never too late
15. Look for the silver lining - it is always there
16. Everything happens for a reason
17. Make every experience a lesson - learn the lesson
18. Accept people for who they are
19. The only person you should try to change is yourself
20. Karma - pay it forward
21. "... there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so ..." (Hamlet)

And back in 2002, my son listed the things he had learned from me:

1. Always say thank you
2. Don't spit
3. Eat the chocolates I don't like
4. Put rubbish in your pocket (not on the ground)
5. Be good to people but don't let them push you about
6. Respect women
7. Never let anyone hurt the people who are close to you
8. It is good to be early
9. Listen
10. Try not to sulk
11. Let people make their own mistakes, be ready to pick them up
12. Be big enough to admit you are wrong
13. Enjoy every day

If you don't understand # 3, you don't know me well enough. If you are curious, ask.