24 Things I Learned In Life
It's been past due since I should have posted something related to my birthday. I said to myself that I'll be posting something on that day (or few days after I turned 24). But I can not help it. I can not think of any idea during that time. And yes (obviously), I already have something in mind now.
During my 23rd year, I said to myself that starting that day, I'll be celebrating my up coming birthdays somewhere else--- either it's out of state or out of the country. And guess what, the year after that, I already broke my promise. Maybe I am just too easy on my self. (lol) Well, not really. I tried. It just turned out that my plan on going to the Big Apple got cancelled for some reason--- which is understandable and fine by me. That being said, I just decided to NOT celebrate my birthday at all. Yep, from that big plan to nothing at all. I didn't even get to get an apple on my birthday. Lol But that's fine… because I have a big plan coming up in few months ;) (and yes, I can't contain my self any longer! I am just too excited for it.) Clue, let's just say it's a super duper late birthday celebration for myself. :)
Actually… Though I decided to just have a normal day (work, eat, and sleep)on my birthday, it still turned out memorable and special. I was able to see the real people in my life. Though they aren't so many, I was able to feel I am special in very simple ways. And I am very grateful:
Of course, my mom greeted me. She'll never miss out. My dad, though technically he doesn't know when's my birthday, he made effort and we ate breakfast together. My near relatives celebrated with me (few days before my birthday) and treat me out for dinner. Two of my closest friends came by my place and just hang out and ate pizza (turned out to be a super early "pajama party" (though we weren't wearing PJ's that time.lol)) Then, those other people in my life (my other relatives and friends) greeted me, made effort and wished me happiness on my birthday. And lastly, those old and new friends who never forget: that though I am so far/busy, they made me feel that they're there for me.
My 24th year celebration is nothing like other. It's pretty unique from all the birthdays I had. It still became special despite the fact that I don't want to celebrate it. People may have forgotten but for those people who I find special, they made me look at it (my birthday) on different way. And I am happy that, at least, I am able to touch and fill other's people heart, and me to them.
When I entered the adult life and graduated college at the age of 20, that's when I started questioning things about life. I started fresh. Everything was different. It became real and serious. Then, slowly, I started to figure things out. I was able to cope up and move forward. Then, I realized how easy was it to be a kid than to be an adult. But, honestly speaking (though), I actually like and love my life today than when I was a kid/teenager. At least today, I am able to do things I want to do. Freely. I am able to buy stuff I want to buy. And I am happy. Plus, I know my self better. But, of course, if you compare yourself as a kid from today, life was way simple back then. You don't have to worry about making a living, your future, your money, your responsibilities, and your chores.
Saying all these, at this age, I am able to realize some thing about life…
1. Keep the REAL people in your life.
People will always say that having few friends is better than having a lot of fake friends. It's just like that.
2. Do good deeds.
Doing good is free.
3. Set a goal.
Time is running fast. You'll realize how much important time is. When you get 23,24, or 25, you'll really say you're getting old. Then you'll panic and think of the things you want to do in your life, get motivated, and put those dreams into reality.
4. True love happens when you're young.
I think a lot of people will disagree. But if you think about it, it's pretty convincing for me. When you're young, you still have a pure heart. Which means, the status, money, power, occupation, beauty, etc. doesn't matter to you. You fall in love and/or get attracted because of the personality and uniqueness of that person.
5. Being weak is not an option.
We're born in all different state. Some may be born rich or poor. Some may be born to have a whole or broken family. Some may be born straight or bi. Some may be born with skills or no talent at all. In short, we're all born in certain ways. However, though in such circumstance, if you're weak, you won't survive. To live is like the words: survival of the fittest. You need to be optimistic and strong. Trust yourself and keep going forward. Do not blame other people from your misery. It's only you who can lift yourself up and become happy.
6. People are all different.
Here goes the saying, "you can not please everybody." TRUE! Every person has different opinion, likes, dreams, personality, and beliefs. Though they have different perspective in life, learn to understand. Do not take things personally. Don't get angry if they don't believe you or they don't have the same thinking as you do. Don't push yourself too hard and try to seduce other person just to make him believe in whatever you believe in. Every person is unique and try to respect that--- that also implies to religion, race, and politics. P.S don't be a racist and prejudice. In short, don't be an ass.
7. Travel!
Being stuck in one place will not make you grow up. Sticking in to one place limits you to what the world has to offer. The world is big and you need to see its beauty. Learn the differences of each person and place. Be open and have an open mind. Learn things and experience those things you haven't tried. Travel while you're young.
8. Being an adult doesn't mean you know everything.
It's a lie! When I was a kid, I thought adults should know everything under the sun. But it turned out, it's a lie! Who would have thought that these old people wouldn't know everything when all the time they'll teach/mock at us when we make mistakes. LOL
9.Your life starts when you turn 20's.
This is the time you question yourself what you do with your life. It's the beginning of REALITY. This is the turning point when you'll realize that everything changed-- that life was so simple back then (when you were just a kid). This is when you'll start to chase your true self and dreams.
10. Do whatever you want to do before you get settled.
You're young and single. Merry and live life to the fullest (but don't copy those people who're stupid enough to do outrageous stunts to get themselves thrown to the jail or the after life.) Try those things you haven't done in your life. Have fun and enjoy being single. Date people and know people. Because once you get married, all your attention will just be about your family. (this is what my married co-workers keep on saying to me. LOL)
11. Date a lot! Don't get too serious.
I'm not saying to be a playboy or playgirl and try to get yourself some AIDS. First of all, dating for me means to learn to know the person, not to fuck them. Though some (or most) of you people might think it that way, well that's not my definition (just to make things clear.) Going back to my topic… Some would agree that dating different kind of people would help you know the game. It gives you the skills and guts on how to learn to know the person. It's one way to say, it's a practice so that when you meet the REAL love of your life, you know what exactly to do (talk to the girl who doesn't really go on dates. LOL)
12. Be real to yourself.
Being too shy and timid about things you want to try will only make you regret it. Sometimes chances are within your grasp and you need to take it before it's too late. Be happy and just be yourself. Don't mind what other people might think of you. You just have fun!
13. Get some hobby.
Here's one thing most all of the guys love to ask you the first time you meet them. Well, it's not just for that reason that you need to get a hobby ASAP. Of course, hobby is to express one part of you-- of who you really are and what you really like. It's one way of escape from reality/ daily routine.
14. Life shouldn't be running JUST around your job. Balance things out.
You have a lot going on in your life! You have your self, God, family, friends, and work. Though work is very important part of your life, it doesn't mean you should ONLY be keeping your focus on that area. If you really want to live life, live like how you should be. I've seen people who loved their work more than anything else, the result isn't so pleasant in the end. The people around him/her ended up distant and everything turned to waste.
15. Everyone changes.
The only thing that's constant in this world is change. True! Because even you, yourself, change. Sometimes you'll realize that the things you hate most when you were a kid is the one you love the most today. Or vise versa. This sounds silly, but true. How ironic life is. Right?
16. Everything has a reason. (Through good times and bad times.)
You'll realize today that those things that hurt you the most before has a reason why it happened. And sometimes, you'll even say, "maybe it's not meant to be." Everything sinks in to your senses slowly. Though things are sometimes hard to accept, you'll see the beauty of it once you separate yourself far from that pain. You'll even eventually thank God it happened.
17. Laugh.
Sometimes being optimistic is hard. But that's one way to get yourself away from that sorrow. Laugh as much as you can and be joyful. It's free and it's stress-free. It helps you lighten up your day.
18. When you're at work, you feel like you're a different person.
Whenever I am working, it makes me feel like I'm on a stage play. I should look and sound sharp, professional, and pleasant--- which is very contrary to who I really am. It's like an act that I get to play an important role (which is true in reality), but you get to do it in 8-12 hrs straight in front of computer or different people.
19. Being independent is fun but hard.
Okay, granted, you get to do whatever you want to do in your life. Of course that's fun! But, it also means you're responsible for your self and your own action. If you want something, pay for it. They say, nothing in this world is free. If you want to live on your own, pay your bills. Pay your rent, loan, car, food, etc. etc. And that part is no fun!
20. Everything isn't just about you.
You need to be considerate on those people around you. You're not the only person in the world. If you want other people to treat you right, treat them the way you want to be treated.
21. It's not bad to be a kid (again).
Well, growing up doesn't mean forgetting about how to have fun. Don't forget about the kid inside you. Age is only a number.
22. Your body is a temple.
When you were a kid, you don't care what you eat. You'd probably rather choose donuts and chips over fruits and veggies. But, when you grow old, that's when you realize you should be eating right and do some exercise. Plus, relaxing is a must!
23. Having "fun" has different meanings.
It doesn't always mean it's loud and alcohol.One day you'll find being alone is fun. One day you'll find being just home is a choice than spending the day with friends.
24. Family is very important
When all of your friends are gone, the first people who'll help you is your family. Blood is thicker than water.
Well, of course, these aren't just the ones I learned through these years. There's a lot and I am still learning. And one thing is for sure, I know my self better now. And I am happy.
