What I've Learned

Just recently, I've been reflecting on some of the things that I've learned in the past couple of years. These things encompass things that I've learned about myself, friendship, the Gospel, schooling, work and social interactions in general. They include learning about cultures and politics and love. I've learned the importance of "knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt." I've learned that sometimes people choose to fool themselves into thinking that bad things aren't as bad as we were taught. I've learned that friendships can span oceans, miles and heartaches. I've learned that love is the most selfless thing in the world, and anyone that tries to tell you otherwise is lying to you. I've learned the importance of studying things out for yourself and then completely disecting the conclusion you've come to in order to be 200% sure. I've learned about the importance of building relationships with people around you. I've learned about how to embrace difference and celebrate different. I've learned that language is only a barrier to great things in life and sometimes people who speak the same language cannot communicate with each other. I've learned that you can be cold while living on a tropical island. I've learned the importance of sharing deep thoughts with others. I've learned the importance of trust. I've learned that unique is wonderful and should be praised correctly (yes, I do mean correctly, and I hope you know what I mean).

I've learned that it is possible to create bonds with people who are very different from you. I've learned how to grow despite lacking some form of nutrition, physical and spiritual (not recommended ;) ). I've learned that there are many people who do not understand their divine potential and inheritance. I've learned that the human spirit and hope are almost stronger than love. I've learned that happiness is the best way to live your life. I've learned that caring for someone does not require a two-way road. I've learned that sometimes you have to back away from a promise in order to grow and be safe. I've learned that duping yourself can cause more harm than good. I've learned the importance of appreciating the world that has been created for me to live in. I've learned that "studying it out for myself" empowers me to learn for myself. I've learned the importance of cherishing other's opinions. I've learned that music is a powerful media for messages. I've learned that sometimes, you should listen to the apprehensions in your gut. I've learned that parting causes sweet sorrow and allows for growth. I've learned that I'm not the world's foremost expert on good, uplifting songs... I've just had a headstart and am starting to see many people catch up and surpass me. I've learned that going out on a limb is not always as scary as it first seems. I've learned that faith is great, but the key to faith is to start taking the steps necessary for blessings and guidance to come. I've learned that it is okay to show other people that you have weaknesses and that you are human. I've learned that asking for help does not make you seem weaker. I've learned that there are many forms of maintaining contact with people. I've learned that opportunity does not come free. I've learned that growing up is something that even elderly people have left to do. I've learned that risks are okay to take from time to time. I've learned that variation leads to a wider perspective. I've learned that the road to self-discovery is well travelled but poorly mapped out. I've learned that trust is a precious commodity. I've learned that sometimes it's okay to not like friends. I've learned that jokes are precision tools that must be used with great care and skill. I've learned that the love of a child is almost as pure as Heavenly Father's love for us. I've learned that memories and emotions have many ways to be captured. I've learned the importance of accepting failure instead of trying to deflect the failure.

I've learned that writing blogs help others maintain contact with you. I've learned that the ocean is a good and bad thing. I've learned that ignorance usually is bliss, but it can also lead to stupidity and hurt. I've learned that there is a time for all things in life. I've learned that differences in language doesn't mean differences in hearts. I've learned that most people don't care about how you are doing when they ask; it's just become part of the ritual of greeting someone. I've learned that drinking water will make you a healthier person. I've learned that marriage status does not fully define a person. I've learned that laughter is one of the best ways to spend your time. I've learned that learning is life long and should never stop. I've learned that age is a number and unimportant. I've learned that stupidity comes in many forms, even courage. I've learned that people don't always know when they've bitten off more than they can chew until it's too late. I've learned that other people allow themselves to be influenced by their world around them. I've learned that it's okay if I can't stand on my own at times. I've learned that there are many ways to be healthy - appearance being one of the least of those ways. I've learned the importance of "the benefit of the doubt." I've learned that forgiveness is wonderful to experience when someone gives it to you. I've learned that sometimes you must work two jobs or more in life. I've learned that patience really is a virtue and must be practiced with care (trials are given liberally when asked for... believe me). I've learned about the importance of trying to see things from another person's point of view. I've learned that it is okay to analyze yourself as long as it isn't to find the negative things about yourself. I've learned that some days you've just got to dance and let go. I've learned that compliments are given in a genuine manner, and should be treated with respect and humility... but not in such a way that you make the compliment giver feel stupid for giving their compliment - just say thank you for it. I've learned that you don't always need to talk when you're around people. I've learned that talents are wonderful things that should be shared freely without thought of compensation or recognition. I've learned that sometimes, eating cookie dough really can make you happier.

I've learned that chick flicks can have substance and sometimes they're just stupid. I've learned how to appreciate how people interact in their worlds. I've learned the importance of receiving an education. I've learned that asking "why" is not a bad thing. I've learned that singing in the rain is a blast. I've learned that dreams are attainable, and the people who are active in the world are generally the dreamers who have their dreams come true. I've learned that people have funny things to talk about. I've learned that distractions aren't the worst thing in the world - they are tests to see how well you can maintain control on your thoughts and focus. I've learned that mind over matter works, but there are people who try to decry it. I've learned that happiness is a state of mind that you choose, and sometimes it's not always the easiest choice to make. I've learned that shouting "wahoo" is a fun way to celebrate things. I've learned that talents only take you so far, and the rest of the way comes from pushing through to the end. I've learned that writing about your life is important because memories fade and don't always work well. I've learned that caring can be shown in many forms. I've learned that simple things in life are important to enjoy. I've learned that giving in to someone else's wants is a good thing... usually. I've learned that meeting someone's family is exciting and scary at the same time. I've learned that pick-up sticks is a dangerous game when played with competitive people. I've learned that being repetitive won't always solidify something in your mind. I've learned that it's okay to act ridiculous. I've learned that learning is wonderful.