Stuff I've Learned Along the Way

So, as I was sitting around the family today, listening to old stories and the like, I came to the conclusion that nearly everything I have learned in life that matters, I have learned from my family and close friends. While there is no substitute for a formal education, you can't really learn to live your life in a classroom. With that being said, I've decided to present to you, the important things I have learned so far in life:

• There are two types of trouble. One is the trouble you knowingly walk into, the other is trouble that just happens...it's important to know the difference.


• You can get by on charm for about 15 minutes, after that, you had better know something.


• Foul language is a sign of a limited vocabulary. (Gotta work on that one)


• It's hard to determine where to draw the line between being nice and standing up for what you believe.


• There's a difference between an excuse and a reason.


• People deserve a second chance, sometimes a third, but never a fourth.


• If a woman perceives it, she's right. (Compliments of the former Colonel, now General)


• Don't trust people who are cruel to dogs.


• If you don't know what to do, it's probably a good time to ask for help.


• Go with your gut, but always have a back up plan.


• Do crazy, don't do stupid. Know the difference.


• Know when to keep your mouth shut. (Especially when women are involved)


• Actions don't always speak louder than words.


• Know when to quit.


• Sometimes you have a right to be angry, but never cruel. Know when, and how, to apologize.


• It's better to give and go without.


• Always stand up straight. (I don't really know why but I had my grandma yell it at me enough to take it to heart.)


• People think better of you when you have manners. Guys, hold doors and give up your seats for ladies.


• Respect your elders, at some point in time, they were exactly where you are.


• The 7 P's - Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.


• If you lay down with dogs, you rise up with fleas.


• You're going to make mistakes. You can't prevent mistakes and you can't change them, you've just got to learn from them.