In my 30 years, I've learned...

Today is my birthday! For those of you who know me well, I love my birthday. I openly admit that I am much like a seven year old with regard to the level of anticipation and excitement I feel about my birthday. I may not manifest that excitement the way a seven year old would, but I love my day nonetheless! My birthday always gives me the chance to look back at where I've been and look forward to what may lie ahead. This birthday, I've thought quite a bit about what I've learned and about significant experiences which have affected the course of my life. Here are a few quick thoughts.

1. I've learned... that life is better without television.
2. I've learned... that when you're in love, it shows.
3. I've learned... that just one person saying hi to me makes my day.
4. I've learned... that having a child fall asleep in my arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
5. I've learned... that being honest is always the best choice.
6. I've learned... that forgiveness (both giving and receiving) is a sweet feeling.
7. I've learned... that I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.
8. I've learned... that no matter how serious life requires me to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
9. I've learned... that sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
10. I've learned... that simple walks with my mother when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.
11. I've learned... that we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.
12. I've learned... that money doesn't buy class.
13. I've learned... that it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
14. I've learned... that under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
15. I've learned... that we all express and recognize love differently and that I should strive to love others in ways they recognize as love.
16. I've learned... that to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
17. I've learned... that being debt-free is almost as liberating as skinny-dipping.
18. I've learned... that life isn't always about me. In fact when it's not, it's more enjoyable.
19. I've learned... that God really loves me.
20. I've learned... that everyone I meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
21. I've learned... that no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
22. I've learned... that life is tough, but I'm tougher.
23. I've learned... that opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones I miss.
24. I've learned... that when I harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
25. I've learned... that some things are really better left unsaid.
26. I've learned... that one should truly treat others as he wishes to be treated.
27. I've learned... that a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
28. I've learned... that I can't choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.
29. I've learned... that the hardest things in life are ultimately the most rewarding.
30. I've learned... that learning is a lifelong endeavor and I've only just begun.