Lessons We Learn

We learn a lot in a lifetime. Hell, we learn a lot in a day. As a student, it's seemingly endless the amount of information I not only hear but learn about on a daily basis. But what's taught inside the classroom is often of minuscule value in comparison to what I learn outside the classroom. While the professor can lecture on neoliberalism vs. realism vs. any other ism, outside of the classroom I learn a different set of theories. I learn about loyalty in an environment structured to foster treachery. I learn about truthfulness and integrity while swimming through lies and deceit. I find myself constantly looking for stability and searching for an anchor all the while knowing that stability is a luxury not bestowed upon me, yet. Some days I learn tough lessons. Lessons that are unfair and I beg for answers, which don't always come.  But now I've learned these tough things first hand, which is maybe the only way to penetrate my stubborn side. But some days, we learn great things. Some days, we learn who our true friends are and on other days, these friends are there to remind you of all the great aspects of life. We learn how to laugh at ourselves more and wallow in self pity less. Some days old sayings that we've heard for years start making sense. We understand how less is more and how despite my spoiled girl mindset, money actually cannot buy you happiness. We learn that one in the hand is worth two in the nest and how we should never count any poultry while still in egg form. We finally understand what everyone has been telling us since we were sitting in laps and dancing on our fathers' feet. So keep learning. Keep wondering, questioning and asking questions because lessons are important, no matter how you learned them.

Smile Back

I remember every time you've truly smiled at me. From the first day we met until now, I can point to times and days and moments when we caught eyes and you smiled at me. It's crazy. I never thought I would want to be around someone so much or talk to them about every part of my life. In the past I've been protected and guarded at times. I choose what to share carefully, and although some would say I'm very open, I know what I'm open about. I realize what I'm sharing and how it could effect me. But with you, I don't think about censoring myself, or my speech or what I talk about. I believe in you. I believe in me when I'm with you. I wish you would believe in us.