A Rambling Raconteur

“Every man dies. Not every man really lives.” I don’t know how many times I have heard this said, either directly from the movie “Braveheart” or from my brother who loves to quote said movie. Either way, it’s a truth; but are we really living like we believe it? Many people I know have a list of things they want to do or accomplish before they die. That’s good and all, but what about helping everyone else out? Life is fleeting. Shouldn’t we be trying to pass on any knowledge or wisdom that we might have? I believe every generation has something to learn from every other generation. So this is, among other things, is my gift to the world. If Jesus comes to get me tomorrow this is what I want you all to know. Alright kids, listen up. I’ll try not to be overly maudlin. Please keep in mind some of this stuff is what worked for me and some of it comes from mistakes I’ve made.

- High school is something you overcome. But it doesn’t happen until after it’s done. While you’re there, try to enjoy yourself and not do anything too stupid.

- Doing a few stupid things isn’t the end of the world. As long as you aren’t being overtly dangerous, just try and have fun.

- A driver’s license doesn’t make you an adult.

- Drinking doesn’t make you an adult.

- Smoking doesn’t make you an adult.

- Sex doesn’t make you an adult.

- I have no idea what makes you an adult.

- Being an adult is somewhat overrated. Enjoy not being one while you still can.

- Take life one day at a time. If that doesn’t work, take it one hour at time. One moment. Don’t rush it.

- Get a job in high school/college. Even if it’s crappy. Learn to spend your own money.

- Write down your ideas, your goals, your dreams, your fears. It makes a lot of things easier to sort out.

- Do your homework.

- It’s okay to go through “phases.” Take your time figuring out just who it is that you are. Not all change is bad. Just don’t make fun of people who look different from you at that moment. You probably look like a dork to them, too.

- Read. Read a lot. Find a style or an author or a genre you like. Ignore what your peers say about it. It doesn’t matter if it’s cool or trendy or not. Just read. If you aren’t sure where to start, ask a librarian. They are awesome people.

- Be nice to your substitute teachers.

- Don’t grab a knife by the business end.

- It is not wise to make fun of someone’s tattoos. Doing so is simply asking for a fight with someone who enjoys pain.

- There is right and there is wrong. Do and stand up for what is right.

- If you have a point to make, be heard. You’ll never change the world sitting in the back whispering to yourself.

- You *can* change the world.

- If something is funny, laugh. If it’s sad, cry. Don’t let someone else tell you how to respond.

- Even those born to be leaders must sometimes learn to follow.

- Obedience is not a sign of weakness.

- Falling in love is absolutely foolish and often leads to nothing but heartache. Do it anyway.

I suppose I could go on and on, but I will refrain myself. I will, however, leave you with one last thing:

- SEIZE THE DAY – So simple, yet so daunting. Give it a try.