Months and months ago my father wrote down his favorite quotes and pieces of advice for himself after reading my favorite book, "Tuesdays With Morrie."
He has always given me stellar advice about love, loss and self-worth. Now, I will share it with the world.
This one is for you, Dad.
1. Be bold but not aggressive
This is a personal favorite of mine, especially as an extrovert. I sometimes worry that being the open person I am that I come off too strong or too abrasive.
With this piece of advice though, I remind myself not to "overdo" it. Just be natural.
2. Be confident with room for humility
If there is one thing I have learned from my father it is humility. A sense of humbleness.
I am proud of the person I am, but I have learned to never think I am above anyone else or that I am more important.
3. Love others with all your heart and family with all you are
We are loving people in this household and this piece of advice proves just that.
Despite who you are or what you come off to be, it is important to love friends and lovers with every part of yourself to ensure you did everything you could.
It is important to love family with all you are because lots of the time they made you who you are in the first place.
4. When it comes to dating, even if you don't love them make sure you at least respect them
Not every person you date is "the one." Not every person you date you are going to marry.
Even so, at least respect that person you are seeing. Be polite, be courteous, be kind — be respectful to their needs even if you can't love them.
5. Be patient when it comes to true love, it is rare but so fine
My parents have a love like no other.
They are true loves, soulmates and life partners, BUT it also took time for them to get married.
6. Reserve the harshest judgement for yourself
Tough love is normal. Critiquing is normal.
What is not normal is being cruel and inconsiderate. Leave the harshest judgment for behind closed doors, in a mirror — not towards others.
7. Be tolerant but not submissive
Be patient and kind, to a point. Do not settle for something you do not deserve. Be grateful for what is fair.
8. Don't sweat the small stuff — everything is small stuff
This piece of advice speaks for itself. Do not stress the things that are out of your control. Do not get upset over little things.
In a short period of time, you won't even remember it.
9. Live with passion
Be motivated in your work, in your love, in your friendships and yourself. Living life to the fullest with joy in your heart makes for the best life.
10. Treat the elderly with honor and respect
My dad says that time is a teacher and knowledge is acquired. If it weren't for our elders, we wouldn't learn from the past.
11. Have courage and be kind — remember all your grace
This has become my motto in life. I think it means to be fearless, do things that scare you and stand up for yourself while still being a good person and better yet a KIND person.
It is important to know yourself and be true to you.
So, thank you, dad, for all your words of advice. I couldn't have lived this beautiful life without you.
