25 Things I Learned while I am 23

Few days from now, I’ll be celebrating my first birthday! Yes, I mean, the first anniversary of my second life. It’s been a year since I was diagnosed of a disease which taught me a lot of life lesson, at this very young age. But thanks to the grace of God, I just received the result of my latest whole body scan which showed that it’s all clear. I won the fight!

Since then, I became a different person. I became “too much”. To those who have known me for a long time, I’m sure, you observed some of these changes when we had a chance to get along. Well, recently, I just colored my hair, red. A lot of people asked why. And I always responded, “well, just for a change”. So, here’s the reason behind the red hair. It actually represents my extremities, my bravery, my courage and being “too much”. After all, I believe there is nothing wrong in being too much. To show too much care, too much affection, too much emotions and too much love. Though you make yourself vulnerable of being hurt, there’s nothing to regret about, because at the end of the day, you can proudly say to yourself, “I did not hold back. I gave all I’ve got”.

When I had a chance to live again, I realized, that the saying “Life is short” is true. Before, I always taught I had a lot of time to do the things I love, so I had a tendency to procrastinate. This is the reason why, after the surgery, I pursue and strive for the things I really love. I invested my time and effort to relationships, people, ministry, family, career-growth and leisure. Thus, my life did not revolved in work alone, which for a period of time, ate up all my attention and energy.

Last Sunday, I spent time alone with myself just to breathe and reflect. Here are some of my realizations which I wanted to share with you:

1. It is never too late for new beginnings.

Some chapter will end, but eventually, a new one will definitely start.

2. Forget the past but remember its lesson. Live in the present and plan for the future.

3. It might not always a good time. Situations are worst than what we are expected. But even though sometimes you feel that life knocks you down, be still, and always hope and pray for the best.

4. Don’t expect too much from other people. In this case, you are limiting the chances of getting hurt and increasing the chances of surprises.

5. Your family will never leave you, no matter what. Treasure them and spend more quality time with them.

6. Don’t drown yourself with too much problem, because we have a God who walks in the water. Learn to trust Him.

7. Always find an opportunity to improve your talent and skills.

8. Learn to say NO.

9. Don’t be too timid. Let them know who you are and don’t live with other people’s expectations.

10. Take care of our nature. It’s one of the best gifts from God.

11. Move forward from people or situations which physically or emotionally break your spirit and change the kind of person you are.

12. Give up on things or even people who are not worth fighting for.  

13. Fight for the things or people whom you love and who are worth it.

14. Know the difference between number 12 and number 13.

15. Know when to be kind and when not to tolerate other people.

16. Focus on the positive side; even if it’s hard to see that. Always carry a smile!

17. Be passionate in everything you do.

18. Take care of your health. Eat healthy food and exercise.

19. Don’t focus on what you don’t have, but capitalize on what you have. Create your own identity and don’t be a replica of someone.

20.  Don’t fall in love easily. Guard your heart.

21. Be wise and know when to take risk. (Before, I used to say, “don’t be afraid to take risk”)

22. Handle your finances wisely.

23. Lessen your time browsing your social media accounts, but spend more time in meaningful conversation.

24. Love, patience and wisdom. Always bring these three wherever you go.

25. Know your worth! You are wonderfully made.

Life has so much to offer! It is okay to feel bad and to be emotionally broke sometimes. That’s part of life spices. As mentioned in one of my favorite books, you will never appreciate joy, if you did not experienced pain. Yes, pain demands to be felt, so as the grace and love of God. Always carry a light and happy heart! :) Problems will all pass, trials will surely end. And they will come back again, eventually. But we always have a choice on how to respond. And I hope, our response is always based on our values and character, on what we have learned and experienced, and on how we want the future will be.