Hitting that milestone quarter-century birthday tomorrow. Choosing not to read into it too deeply, but cherishing the time of reflection that it is nonetheless. The fruit of such contemplation? A random collection of some notable maxims and values of varied degree that I try to maintain or live my life by.
So, just for kicks, here are 25 things I’ve learned in 25 years:
1. The backs of old receipts are less intimidating than an 8.5x11 blank white page.
2. You can never look up too much, sing too much, pray too much.
3. Always keep a pair of sneakers in your car for spontaneous shenanigans.
4. Questions are a gift; once you wield them wisely, ask them widely.
5. Express your care before you can’t (i.e. you dead).
6. Be wary of fashionable social/cultural ideas; hold fast to the tried and true, stick to the old roads (Jeremiah 6:16).
7. Read books by dead people, by authors you disagree with, topics you wouldn’t typically choose, beyond your assumed comprehension level. Read adventurously, not with a quota in mind, but with a discerning curiosity (emphasis on discerning).
8. Beauty and story are Deep Truths, and often bear more of a Christian witness than arguments. It is good to long for the promise beauty & story both hold.
9. Paint your nails sloppily before you hop in the shower, the excess polish will easily peel off. Boom. Perfect nails.
10. Do not apologize for loving avocado toast (or, the foods you love).
11. Feelings are great helpers but tyrannical masters.
12. Buy yourself a little present every couple weeks & have it shipped to you, that way you always have a little something to look forward to. (Treat Yoself: UPS Edition)
13. Thankfulness is a remedy for anxiousness.
14. Memorize poems.
15. Romantic relationships are not life’s zenith. They are a complimentary mimosa alongside the continental breakfast of being.
16. Stunned by the sunrise/sunset? Always let it interrupt your plans.
17. Long walks. Long walks. Long walks.
18. Be present with people. Try (& often fail but try) to stay off your phone while socializing.
19. Make friends with your solitude. If you put too much stock in people you will always be lonely.
20. 4 No’s - No coffee after 3pm. No alcohol on a Sunday night. No big decisions before a nap. No important conversations after midnight.
21. If you can, try to get up early, at least once in a while if you’re a night owl. Wee morning hours have a stillness that invites communion with God.
22. Be the kind of friend you want.
23. It’s dangerous business, Frodo, grocery shopping while hungry (especially at Wegmans).
24. Apologize well - specifically & sincerely.
25. Take note of the things your loved ones love.