Sixteen Reflections from a Sixteen-Year-Old
In less than an hour, I'll be sixteen years old. I've heard it's supposed to be an important number. You know how, when you were a little kid, you'd stick your tongue out to taste the tip of your ice cream cone, just slightly dulling the point? Put in one toe into the swimming pool to test the water? I think sixteen is a little something like that. You're just old enough to realize how many countries you haven't visited yet, how many people you haven't talked to, how many stories you can't yet tell , and how many stars you haven't yet counted... And in that realization, you earn an ounce of wisdom. So I thought tonight I'd share with you sixteen personal reflections. Maybe it will remind you of what it felt like to be sixteen.
1) I am attracted to the beautiful, meaningful, and raw. And sometimes my curiosity and ambition will lead me to prick my fingers against the thorns. But once out of a million, I will discover something truly wonderful.
2) I am a lot stronger than I give myself credit for. What I think is the end of the world today is just another reason to wake up and try harder tomorrow.
3) No matter how hard I try to push them away, my family will always have my back and be there when I need them most.
4) Sometimes, I am too hard on myself. It's okay if I can't save the world today as long as I keep going.
5) I am brutally honest and sometimes that can push people away. But that's okay because honesty is a part of who I am and the people who need to be here will stay.
6) Self-confidence is the greatest weapon. Humility is the best coach.
7) Invite both the voice in your heart and the voice in your head over for tea. You can't make a decision without one or the other.
8) Be loud, be weird, and most importantly be yourself. The world needs one of you; don't try to be someone you're not.
9) Make good friends then keep them close. They're the power boost you will need to get over life's obstacles.
10) Read books that make you wonder. Drink tea not coffee. Go on walks and lie on the grass and smell the roses. Watch sunrises and sunsets. Listen to music. Make it a priority to take care of your soul.
11) Never lower the expectations you set for yourself. People will doubt and question you and it's your job to not listen.
12) It is always better to be happy than to be right. Stand up for what you believe in but pick your battles wisely.
13) Always be compassionate and caring, regardless of how hard the world tries to make you. There is always good in people. Keep your ears and heart open at all times.
14) Whenever you do something, ask yourself whether or not you are truly satisfied. If not, change your attitude or find something new.
15) Always stay up to date on the latest news and what is happening in the world. Knowledge is powerful.
16) I might be an idealist, a dreamer, unrealistic and that's all right.
