So a friend of mine just recently posted a facebook status that I wanted to write about.
Ok FB friends, I want to know, what advice would you give your 20 year old self, or 20 somethings today. It doesn't matter if you're 21, or 81, I just want to know what you wish you had known then. Ready Go!
It's a good question really. What do you wish you had known.
Personally I wish I had known that no matter how dumb or tedious, little things in your life are what count. The big things are cool such as a house, car, family etc. The little things, however, I feel count just as much. Hot showers. Good friends, even not so well known acquaintances can make all the difference in your life.
I also wish I knew how much just kind words can a effect someone.
The year 2013 made me realize that these things matter. That the impressions you make on people last. When I was struggling my hardest I know a few of these people helped me out. I never asked, never begged these people. They just understood that I needed help and volunteered.
I appreciate cleaning a house, or cooking a meal. I even appreciate washing my clothes even if it is by hand. I appreciate the importance in helping people when you can. Even if it isn't a lot, or just a kind word. People do remember and karma comes around to give what you put out.
The one thing that really made me realize this is one act of kindness. While working on my job I stop a man just right out of the penitentiary. He tells me his story of being in for 10 years and cleaning up his act. He was out looking for a job when I told him that he could find one. That he just needs to stay on the path he was and he could get whatever he needed. Enter the random acquaintance I mentioned.
One night when I was out on the streets, no where to live, hanging out with my homeless friends I ran into him again. (That part of my life is a story for a different day) He asked me how I was doing. After talking to him a bit he could tell that while I said I was fine, I wasn't. While he couldn't offer me a place to stay he did offer me dinner. He ignored my prideful "I don't need help" response. This guy who was down when I met him was now up. And now the tables turned he was the one helping me.
I will never forget that. And at that time in my life there were several stories like that. And still to this day it continues. People helping people in my world.
I guess what I'm trying to say in my ramblings is that I would tell my 20 year old self, and other 20 somethings, be kind and help when you can. You never know when it'll come back around. You may just start one of the greatest chain reactions ever.
Treat people the way you want to be treated, because what goes around comes around.
-B
