My Most Important Life Lessons

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I sat on my backyard swing last night enjoying the astonishing beauty of the summer sky. Journal in hand, I began to think about the wisdom that I have acquired in my many years of living. I realize that my life has been a sacred journey of gathering wisdom and understanding how to best live well in the world. I know I have alot more to learn but I am so grateful for what life has taught me.


1. Let go of things you cannot change.

Ask yourself, what can I do about this? If it seems there is something you can do, do it. If the answer is nothing, say a heartfelt prayer and get on with the business of living.

2. Change what you can.

Your thoughts, your behaviors and your actions--that is about it!

3. Do not take things personally.

If you are treated rudely, it usually isn’t about you but the other person’s pain or wounds. You don’t have to be a victim.

4.Heal your wounds.

If you find you are often offended and unhappy, look inside for what is being triggered and heal these wounds.

5.Feed your soul.

Spend time often doing what you love. This will bring you much happiness!


6.Connect with others.

Smile at people in the grocery store. Comment on someone’s baby or flowers or dog. Form a book group or a women’s group. Call a friend for lunch. Invite a neighbor for dinner.


7. Kindness is golden.

Kindness not only brings joy to others but expands our own heart. Kindness to yourself is very important.

8. Do not make assumptions.

You can build a whole story out of why you think someone is doing what they are doing. It is a waste of your time and energy

9. Listen with your whole heart.

This is one of the greatest gifts you can give another human being.

10. Accept yourself with all your beauty, flaws and human frailties.

When you accept yourself the way you are you are free to make changes.

11. Listen to your gut.

Check inside when making a decision about anything. If something just doesn't feel right, pay attention to that feeling.

12. Know what you stand for.

Get clear on your principles and beliefs. These will be your guide in making many important life decisons.

13. Appreciate what you have.

When you live in appreciation the universe will give you even more.

14. Allow yourself to feel your feelings.

This is very freeing and allows you to live more in a state of flow.

15. Like attracts like.

Positive thoughts attract positive things, experiences and people. Negative thoughts attract negativity into your life.

16. Simple things are best.

When I look back at my life it is always the times with family and friends, the games, the laughter, the joy that we shared that I remember most.

17. It is the love you have shared with others that really matters.

Live as if to live and to love are the same.

18. Forgive.

Forgiveness allows the posion of hatred to leave your body, mind and soul and to live in a state of peace and joy. It helps when we realize that most people are doing the best they can with what the resources and knowledge they have.

19. Just do it!

This applies to applying for the job,making that dreaded phone call,going out for a run when you are tired or booking a trip to Italy.

20. Look for the good in others.

Why not? If I can see the loveliness in someone else...they begin to see it in themselves.

These life lessons guide me in my everyday life in countless ways. I am sure I will add more and more to the list as the years go by.

I would love if you added your gems to this list. I am sure they are beautiful.

From my heart to yours,
Brenda