Everything the Light Touches

This is something I'm writing from the heart, and I hope that maybe it comes through.

Bitterness, sadness, anger, resentment and self-blame might find you every now and again, and when they do, remember that it's alright to keep company with them a little while, but keeping them as constant companions is absolutely out of the question. Always remember that happiness is something that does come, it is also something you can make and achieve. More often than not, it's easier to find when not alone.

Remember that working hard should be something you do in balance with the things that relax you. Always value your health- both physical and mental. Caring about being the best version of yourself means treating yourself kindly with healthy choices, again both emotionally and physically. If something you're doing is making you miserable, then there is no reason you should be doing it. Always find alternatives. They're always there, but often not in your direct line of sight.

Remember to never give up. Remember that true motivation should come from a loving passion, not from anger or fear. The latter will only drain you in the end. Love however, is the most powerful and enduring motivator. Love what you do, love yourself and you'll see how the world starts to change around you.

Chasing the cobwebs away isn't easy, but the moment you decide that it's time for them to go, you will realize that you're in total control. You know yourself like no one else does or ever will. Remember that. Always remember to forgive yourself and go forward. Don't look back until you're so far ahead that the only way to see what you left behind is by memory alone.

Remember to be open and genuine with others. And remember that you don't need to be everyone's friend. You don't need to be unkind, but you should always be able to stand up for yourself. You only need people in your life who enhance the experience. Don't bother wasting energy on people who don't give you anything positive in return.

Be wise, be reasonable. Always be polite and honest, to yourself, and to others.

When things don't go as planned, remember that it's not the end of the world. Don't lose yourself to unnecessary despair. Look around at your options and you'll see there are other paths.

Choose your battles wisely, choose your journeys wisely. Always know when to call it a day, and never be ashamed to do something for your own sake.

Be considerate. Apologize when you make a mistake or offend someone, then learn to do better next time.

Nurse your happiness. Dedicate time to happiness every day. No matter how busy you are, always find the time to be glad for something.

Laugh. Laugh from the bottom of your stomach, until you have tears in your eyes and you can't breathe. Share your laughter, make it count.

Don't be afraid of change. It's inevitable, but it's exciting. Choose to flow with the changes you can't control in your life, then choose to shape the changes you do control.

Remember that strength isn't about being bold and unmalleable. Strength is being able to move forward, be flexible and always be yourself in times of trouble. Strength is knowing your own limits and respecting them, and promising to work through the hard times in the best way possible for yourself.

Never be ashamed to ask for help. You don't need to be alone, nor should you be.

Remember that no matter how afraid you are, you have already faced so many challenges and proved yourself until now. You will always be able to do that again.

Never give up, always love yourself, be ambitious, true and remember the spirit of fun.

It's your life. So go get it.