Things I’ve Learned In Life

In this thing called life, we are always learning…. Life is a continual lesson. From my experience, some things are harder to learn than others. We all have lessons in life as we are all on different journeys.

Here is a collection of SOME of the things I’ve learned in my life…

You should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. There is a lot to be said for how a warm hug or even a touch can help another person. We never know what someone is going through, and a hug or touch can make a huge difference. It sure has for me!

People will forget what you said or what you did, but they will NEVER forget how you made them feel. We truly do remember how people make us feel. One of the best things we can give to another is to make them feel loved and valued.

Life sometimes gives you a second chance. For me, second chances has meant the opportunity to mend a relationship, to right a wrong or correct a mistake.

Even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned this from watching others. Pains here could mean life struggles or even literal pain. But even in this, I don’t have to be a pain.... (AKA complainer)

I never knew how special grandchildren were, until mine came along. What a wonderful feeling to have your grandchildren run up to you with a hug when you see them and call you their special name for you. ( I have two special names - "Jana" and "Nana") Having children is a great experience, but seeing your children have children of their own, well, that is a special blessing.

It costs NOTHING to be kind. Kindness is always free.

Fear might be riding in the car but I don't have to let it drive. Fear can keep you from experiencing life. Don’t let it take the wheel!

To look for the good in any situation. This can be so hard sometimes. But it is always best to find the good and not the bad and look for the positive and not the negative.

To believe anything is possible. Never stop believing that anything is possible. Never stop believing that a circumstance can change.

I am stronger than I ever thought I could be or would ever HAVE to be... I’ve learned this OVER and OVER again. And the saying, “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is a true story.

The glass is refillable. Ok, so I am almost always a positive person. I used to think that being positive meant that the glass was half full instead of half empty. But I have come to realize that the glass is indeed refillable and for me that seems more positive.

A good friend is with you no matter what. Oh, the joy of having friends that stick by your side. That is a true treasure and I am so blessed.

The God on the mountain is the same God in the valley. The valleys of life….. They are not as good as the mountain top. It’s good to know that God is ALWAYS with us no matter where we are in our journey and He is always the same.

Comfort zones are comfortable for a reason. Stepping out of a comfort zone has been a HUGE lesson for me. I have found myself doing it more and more the past few years. I can't believe some of the comfort zones I've stepped out of.

You can't change people. While we can change ourselves, we can’t change others. I’ve found that people have to WANT to change.

Life is meant to be lived. We have this ONE life to live. Why not live it to the fullest?

Not to worry about what others think of me. It took me awhile to learn this but there is freedom in this. My family and my real friends love me the way I am, and they love me for who I am. (Just like God does.)

To always LOVE your family. You never know when you might lose them. Things can change in the blink of an eye. Stay in touch with family and love them as hard as you can.

To leave every place I go better than I found it. Make a difference. Smile at a stranger. Show kindness. Give rather than take. Leave an impact. When this life is over, I want to be known for leaving my little space in the world better than I found it.

There is always hope. I based my blog on hope, An Anchor of Hope. When all seems lost or hopeless, there is still hope. “We have this hope, an anchor for the soul. Firm and secure.” Hebrews 6:19

......and I've learned I still have a lot to learn. I’m sure before my maker calls me home, there will be many more lessons to learn. Until then, I’ll remember my life lessons so far and keep living life!