Advice for my 20-something self

Now that I'm middle-aged, there are 10 things I wish I could've advised my 20-something self.

1. Don't fear failure. Challenging one's self often leads to the most unimaginable successes and opportunities and leads you down some fascinating and enlightening pathways. And when you fail, because if you take risks you will eventually fail, dust yourself off and get back up again. Try to see the humour in your situation and give yourself credit for having had the courage to take the risk.

2. Trust actions, not words. People often say the things you want to hear because it's the easier way out. But, actions represent an individual's true feelings, commitment, and compatibility.

3. The "easier, softer way" is usually the wrong way.

4. Don't even consider cosmetic surgery. Your body is perfect!

5. Take some classes you REALLY WANT to take. Try not to adhere to or believe the labels that society has given you. You are a multi-faceted, unique individual with many talents. Society labels us just to make its job easier.

6. Be prepared for many career changes. Your "dream" job does not exist! Try something, lots of somethings. You just might find your passion!

7. Be kind, empathic, and respectful to the older generations. They do have wisdom and often have interesting perspectives if you just take the time to listen. They ARE your history and have often lived and survived what you are going through.

8. Divorce taught me a lot but if you have doubts do NOT get married.

9. School is never a bad idea.

10. Never say never. Likely you WILL in the future.

Lotus Flower

Several months later, this video still resonates with me. I applaud Thom Yorke's courage to allow the world to view his imperfections while witnessing that which makes him feel pure. Music is perhaps his divinity.

So much of ourselves is edited. We act and speak in ways we think we ought. It takes time, thought, and courage to define and express our true essence.

Think of those pure moments when you have felt unedited, connected, generous, and loved. Strive for more of those moments of true acceptance. In doing so, I think, we may just experience the gift of enlightenment.