Under Your Skin

Be Real. Although you may be focusing on one certain person, event or aspect of your life remember that there is more to your world then just that one part. Do many things with your time. Be well rounded, because the one thing that you've been fixating on may not always be there. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Life is a balance of many things, and it's in that balance that we are able to discover everything we are capable of. Be Confident. You are who you are. Recognize that there will always be someone prettier, smarter, nicer, whatever. Accept that everyone is different, and that our differences are what make life interesting. Be confident that those around you love you for who you are and that they are attracted to what sets you apart. No one is perfect, so don't try to be. Just be you. Love Fully. Love and care for the people in your life with all that you've got, they may not always be around. Love whole heartedly. Remember to treat people the way you want to be treated. If you play games with people's hearts expect that, one day, that heartbreak will come right back your way. Be faithful. It's your own integrity that's on the line. Whether this is in friendships or relationships, keep your promises. Love is based on trust. If you are an honest and trustworthy person you will find love. A life without real, honest love really isn't a life at all. But remember, it may not always be easy. Love can't be perfect either. Be Kind. In the grand scheme of things it's really not that hard to be a good person. Sometimes it can be a challenge, and obviously not everyone gets along. Don't spend time with people who create negativity in your life. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh and with those who believe in you. Be kind to everyone you meet. If you judge a book by its cover you may never know what you're missing. The same goes for people. Listen. Everybody has a story, and these stories are what help us learn and grow. It's far easier to go through life being nice to others then it is to walk all over them. Smile. As often and as big as you can. There is nothing more attractive than a truly happy, truly kind person. Be Humble. Recognize that you are extremely blessed. If you have running water, a roof over your head and love in your life then you've already got more than most people. Do not take these things for granted. Appreciate the seemingly "small things." Don't judge people by their possessions because it's what's in the heart that really matters. Appreciate everything, big and small. Say thank you, for even the smallest gift can be full of love. It's not always the big actions or gifts that mean the most. Be Free. Appreciate and acknowledge that you are a free person. Be grateful that you can choose your job, your friends and your beliefs. Express your freedom. Think about all of the choices that you have- who to love, where to go and who to be. Choose wisely. Although our freedom may be our right it's also a gift. Do good with your freedom, for not all people have the freedom to do what is right. Breathe. Climb a mountain, feel the air and be grateful. Because whatever you do choose, your biggest freedom is knowing that you are safe to live out your life. Be Happy. Life isn't always easy, and everyone has their down days. You may not always get to see your closest friends but the most important thing is knowing that they are there. Be as true to them as they are to you. Laugh. Look back on the times where you laughed so hard that you cried, these are the times that mean the most and that you will remember forever. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff. Being negative and pessimistic will only result in lonliness and a constant feeling of dissatisfaction. If you put goodness out into the world it's bound to bounce right back. Spend your time with people who bring you the most joy, the people who keep your heart light. Be ridiculous. Be goofy. And let loose. Laugh until it hurts. Be Strong. In the end, the only person you can truly rely on is yourself. You can't blame others for your failures nor can you give them full credit for your acheivements. Be true to yourself. If you are not confident in yourself, or your decisions, people will take advantage of you. Don't give them this chance. There is nothing more important than your own heart. Stand up for what you believe in, keep your chin up, and no matter what take care of you. Always, always have backbone.