*lessons learned*

God has really given me a heart for high school and college age girls and wanting to serve and minister to them at such a transitional stage in life.  Shelley actually also has a big heart for the same age group and the other night we spent some time chatting just about a few of our heartaches and regrets from those ages that we wish we could tell our younger self.  And, that we wish we could pass on to some girls that age now who we see going through the same things.  The convo really got me to thinking about all of the things I would tell 17/18 year old me, and while I'm sure this list is no way exhaustive, I figured I'd share a few.

1) say "thank you" to your parents more.  your frame of reference for life and bills and chaos is nothing like it will be in a few years.  your parents have sacrificed a lot for you so you didn't have to do without.  make sure they know you appreciate it.

2) listen to others and pay more attention.  everyone is fighting some battle or heartache.  instead of constantly complaining about why your life is so terrible, take time to see how you can love on and encourage those around you who may be dealing with something even greater than who talked trash about you behind your back.

3) save, save, SAVE.  you don't really need that new dress.  does this one honestly need anymore explanation?

4) keep practicing your violin.  so what if its not the "coolest" instrument in the world.  someday you're gonna wish you could still play.

5) create healthier habits.  work out. learn to like more veggies and fruits.  one day your body is going to require these things to keep functioning and it'll be a lot harder to get in the habit then.

6) eat more junk.  in moderation, of course.  your metabolism will slow down, so why not take advantage of that extra cookie or piece of cake while you can.  and remember, you are NOT fat.

7) don't give your heart away so easily.  someday, God willing, you will have that prince charming husband and perfect little family with 2.5 kids and a dog.  but don't rush it.  and don't give away even the smallest piece of your heart, emotions, or your body until then.  you will regret it.

8)  don't wish your life away.  the older you get, it really does seem like, the faster time goes.  you have the rest of your life for whatever it is that comes next.  enjoy living the careless lifestyle (even if it sometimes includes ridiculous amounts of homework) because it wont last forever.

9) confidence is key.  stop caring so much about what others think about you.  a little confidence in yourself will go a long way.

10) a core group of girls is a necessity.  sometimes girls have more drama, yes, but a girl will also understand that matters of your heart so much better than any guy "best friend" can.  make sure you have at least one girl to laugh, cry, and fight with.

11) value your extended family.  sure, it can be boring sometimes hanging out in the old folks home with papap and grandma or missing that party with your friends because your family is having a reunion.  but someday you'll wish you had treasured the limited time you got to spend with those who love you the most.

12) take care of your skin.  wear sunscreen and don't pick.  scars and skin cancer are not as cool as being tan or trying to make that blemish disappear in time for prom.

13) take life less seriously.  stop stressing and worrying over stupid things you can't control.  laugh more, forgive and move on quicker.  

14) branch out.  take more chances to do things you might be a little hesitant or scared to do.  make friends with people you might not usually or join a club that interests you, even if all your friends are doing something different.  

15) you aren't a grown up.  you might think that because you're 18+ you've finally reached adulthood, but you are so very wrong.  in 10 years, you'll realize how little you know and will literally discuss with your friends "when do you think we will actually start to feel like an adult?"

I'm not old, and I definitely have so little wisdom compared to what I'd someday love to have.  But, in my 27 years on this earth, I can definitely say I've "wised up" in some areas and learned a few things.  I am certain though, I still have sooooooooo much more to learn.