Things I Learned in High School from Boys

As I balance on the edge of this high-school-into-college diving board, I am taking a moment to reflect on the knowledge I have acquired from friends. Romantic and platonic, these six unnamed relationships have each contributed to this list. I am declaring these six scribbles to be the beginning of my life's guide.

1. Don't Worry About It

Worrying does nothing except make your voice shake and your body smell. It's unproductive and a waste of energy. Sleep is harder to come by and less restful. It is physically detrimental. It is unhealthy. It is bad bad bad. Just trust that everything will turn out, maybe just not in the way you imagine.

2. Randomness is Beautiful

Oh, how such wonderful things can happen if you let chance take the reins. Sweet coincidence and genuine luck are the bearers of happy memories. Can't decide? Flip a coin. And at every opportunity, appreciate the scenery.

3. You Make the Choices

Don't blame your decisions on other influences or pressures. Be accountable for your actions and improve from there. Don't make excuses for yourself - it's like lying. You can't expect to better yourself or your situation until you accept responsibility. Your choices define your character.

4. There is Always Help

Help is readily available. All you need to do is ask. Don't let pride, embarrassment or shame stand in the way of reaching out for assistance - that doesn't do anybody any good. Friends and family will always be there for you to lean on.

5. Love Yourself First

You will only be mature enough for a healthy relationship when you are satisfied and proud of yourself as a person. Otherwise you will rely too much on your significant other to feel good about yourself, which will culminate in the illusion of a strong relationship. Confidence and acceptance should come from within first.

6. Happiness Takes Courage

Being happy can be as simple as making a choice to be that way. Not focusing on the failures and pain in the past doesn't mean forgetting. It means being strong enough to move past it and celebrate the good things in your life. Most of all, it takes faith to believe that happiness is possible.

Thank you to each of the boys that unknowingly contributed (and I do mean boys because you are not men yet, not in my book.) Thank you for the support, devotion, late-night conversations, laughs, and memories. I wonder if you six know who you are and what piece of advice came from you?