Important life lessons

So, I am waiting to post my big blog about the summer. However, right before I left the wonderful D.C. on Friday, Leilani (check out her blog!) handed me a letter. After some of the most heart-felt words anyone has ever written me, she shared with a very insightful quote that I must pass on. (Note: I said quote. Meaning I did not write this, and neither did Leilani.)

I strongly suggest you read the entire thing. (Another note: I have seen this online as being titled "The Story of Life.")

"Sometimes, people come into your life and you know right away that they were meant to be there, to serve some sort of purpose, teach you a lesson, or help you figure out who you are or who you want to become. You never know who these people may be, but when you lock eyes with them, you know that every moment they will affect your life in some profound way.

Sometimes, things happen to you at a time that may seem horrible, painful and unfair, but in reflection, you realize that without overcoming those obstacles, you would never have realized your potential, strength, will-power or heart.

Everything happens for a reason. Nothing happens by chance, or by means of good luck. Illness, injury, love, lost moments of true greatness and sheer stupidity all occur to test the limits of your soul. Without these small tests, life would be like a smoothly paved, straight, flat road to nowhere. Safe and comfortable, but dull and utterly pointless.

The people you meet affect your life. The successes and downfalls that you experience can create who you are, and the bad experiences can be learned from. In fact, they are probably the most poignant and important ones. If someone hurts you, betrays you or breaks your heart, forgive them, because they have helped you learn about trust and the importance of being cautious to whomever you do open your heart.

If someone loves you, love them back unconditionally, not only because they love you, but because they are teaching you to love, and to open your heart and eyes to little things. Make every day count. Appreciate every moment and take from it everything that you possibly can, for you may never be able to experience it again.

Talk to people you have never talked to before, and actually listen. Let yourself fall in love, break free and set your sights high. Hold your head up, because you have every right to. Tell yourself you are a great individual and believe in yourself, because if you don't believe in yourself, no one else will believe in you. Create your own life, and then go out and get it and LIVE IT."
- Author Unknown

I learned a lot while in Washington. I learned about journalism, about politics, about the world. Most importantly, though, I learned about myself. I discovered who I was, what I wanted and where I am going. Out of everything that D.C. taught me, this quote sums up the most important lessons that I have learned.

I hope it teaches you something, too.