Today's topic: With your dying breath, what words of wisdom would you impart to future generations?
Be you. You are the product of the wisdom of the Universe--imperfectly perfect just the way you are. There are lots of rule books for the way things should be. Your family has one. Your friends have one. Society has one. But rules that work for some, won't always work for you. That's okay. If the world says women should be dainty, porcelain skinned, flaxen haired, quiet and uncomplicated, and you are statuesque, mahogany toned, kinky haired, loud and difficult? Embrace it. If the world says men should be hard, stoic and aggressive, and you are soft, emotional and calm? Revel in it. It the world says war, but you say peace? Celebrate it. Learn to listen to yourself, too. Be still and quiet sometimes. That's the best way to hear your own voice. Once you hear it, follow it.
Be smart; work hard. Education is the key to everything. Read. Read everything you can get your hands on. Listen to great thinkers. Travel. Be a citizen of the world. Avoid being tribal and jingoistic. Talk to people who are different from you and get to know them; it will lead to empathy. Have goals. And remember that nothing worth having comes easily.
Be kind and generous. The Dalai Lama once said, "This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness." I can't say it any better.
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