Within the short time that I have been interested in Pokémon, I've learned many valuable lessons. These lessons have been illustrated or exhibited by the show's characters through their strengths and traits. These metaphors or tenets for living are expressed in a more subtle fashion than the more overt guidelines that are displayed through the main character Ash. Here are some life lessons that I've gathered from Pokémon, not their trainers:

1. Butterfree: Even though goodbyes are hard, sometimes it's necessary.

Butterfree and Ash both had a fierce loyalty towards one another . In order for Butterfree to fulfill his destiny he had to leave Ash. Although it hurt them both it was crucial for Butterfree to be truly happy.

2. Cubone: Overcoming tragedy isn't always easy.

Cubone is often referred to as the "Lonely Pokémon" because it prefers solitude to companionship. It never got over the tragic death of its mother and wears her skull as a helmet which metaphorically and physically protects him.

3. Eevee: You can be whatever you want to be.

Express yourself and feel free to explore all of the facets of your individuality just like Eevee with its eeveelutions.

4. Goodra: Stand up for what's right even if it means standing alone.

Goodra defended all of its friends against Florges to try and get their marsh back. It's friends were too scared to help which resulted in Goodra fighting alone. It's friends began to fight once Goodra was in trouble and needed the help.

5. Gastly, Haunter, and Gengar: Always find the joy in life.

Just as Gastly, Haunter, and Gengar derive pleasure from scaring people, they do it with a mirthfulness not a malevolence.

6. Psyduck: Don't judge a book by its cover.

I know what Pokémon you're thinking of "Magikarp". What about Psyduck though? Misty believed that psyduck was completely useless until it got hit on the head a few times and unleashed it's true power. Now, don't get me wrong Magikarp is pretty useless until it evolves into Gyrados, but we all knew that.

7. Mew: Some of the best things in life are found by mistake.

In Pokémon Red and Blue the only way to get Mew is by glitching the game. In my opinion, Mew is pretty awesome and by glitching the game you're technically making a "mistake" to get something great.

8. Noibat: Even if you don't succeed, get up and try again.

Noibat had difficulty learning how to fly. Hawlucha tried teaching him but Noibat kept failing. It took one race for Noibat to have confidence in itself and learn to fly on its own.

9. Squirtle Squad: Surround yourself with a great group of friends.

I have two words for you: Squirtle Squad. Surround yourself with a network of like-minded friends. Find friends that will always have your back and support you no matter what.

10. Pikachu: Make your own choices.

Ash wanted Pikachu to evolve so badly but Pikachu refused to. Pikachu chose not to evolve in order to demonstrate that you don't have to become something else to overcome obstacles.