Dear Class of 2018,
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.
I’ve had knee surgery on my right leg and ankle surgery on my left. I’ve got no use for shoes that look “cool” but feel horrible. No one wants to go places with shoes that leave blisters. Worn out shoes are trophies of a good life.
Play every single day.
You know you’re playing when you do it for free and your soul smiles while you’re doing it and contagious joy is spread to friends new and old alike. You know you’re playing when a part of you is sad when you have to stop. You know it’s play when you can’t wait to do it again tomorrow.
Take a break from technology.
The best things in life are people, and people aren’t things to be used or manipulated but delightful, marvelous, inimitable creations to be celebrated.
Trust your gut, especially when Fear says you’re not good enough.
There will always be people better than you. So what. Whatever dreams are on your heart, do it anyway.
Be intentional about making new friends.
Remember, the best things in life are people. And there are some amazing people on this planet that you need to meet and that need to meet you.
Be generous with high fives.
Choose to see the good, the beautiful, the whimsical every day in others and celebrate it generously. High fives and hat tips for everyone!
Chase impossible dreams.
In my mind, I know I will never play baseball for the Kansas City Royals. But I will never let my mind speak that truth to my heart. Audacious dreams get us doing things, going places, meeting new people.
Exercise your imagination.
Brains need workouts, too.
Listen wholeheartedly.
Good listening requires eye contact. Everyone’s got a story. They just need opportunities to tell it.
Live passionately.
It is easy to succumb to the rhythms of daily life and forget the wondrous gift of every single day. Passion-less living inspires no one.
Life is meant to be shared.
The best stories in life don’t come as a result of one person, but as the synergistic, cooperative effort of a team.
Life is not about winning and losing.
Life is about having the audacious courage to try one more time than you’ve failed.
