Don't forget. (A few reminders.)

As I alluded to in my earlier post, I recently returned back from a major work event that I was on the core planning team for. It was a week full of lot of highs and lows. There were moments when I felt like my strengths shined through, and other situations that made my weaknesses painfully obviuos. I don't know that I've ever felt so encouraged and surrounded by people who care about me, while at the same time feeling so vulnerable and criticized by others. A funny dichotomy.

Rather than be my lengthy, verbose self (well, I still might be) and write at length about my particular experiences, I decided to write a letter to you. To me. It doesn't matter whether you were the person in the "right" or the "wrong." Regardless of that, these are a few lessons I hope that I won't quickly forget.

Dear 27 year old me (and you who's reading this,)

Always remember that friends give friends the benefit of the doubt. If you feel like you've been wronged, try to expect the best, before you assume the worst.

Just because you might be different than "them" you are not better than they are. Stop acting like it.

Your strengths are only made complete by others, not by trying to do everything on your own.

Don't forget that though you may say only a few words, you can do a lot of damage. Be careful.

The people who frustrate you the most are usually the people you have the most to learn from.

You can make someone's day with just one compliment. Be generous in praising others and don't underestimate the power of your encouragement.

There's a way to give criticism and give it kindly. Whatever it takes, learn how to do this.

Remember the people who go out of your way to love you and encourage you. When you feel like you can't tell them thank you enough, just make sure you are that person for someone else.

Healthy people ask for what they need. Don't think you're better than this and try to be martyr. It doesn't make you a martyr. (It makes you stupid.)

Your goal each day should be to treat those around you in such a way that their day is a little better because of you. Pretty simple.

Don't forget.

Love,

Me