FAMILY
'Never Turn Down a Mint' and Other Life Lessons from Mom
By Jennifer E. Jones
CBN.com Producer
CBN.com
– The evolution of the daughter/mother relationship is funny to me. You spend the first 10 years utterly dependent on her; the next 10 thinking she’s an idiot, and it’s not until you turn 25 that you suddenly realize the shocking truth...
“My mother was right.”
It’s hard to admit but looking back, I see every bit of advice, every knowing glance, and every gently worded "suggestion" was for my benefit. She knew all the pitfalls and landmines that I’d face long before I left my crib, and when she spoke, she spoke with wisdom from past experience.
My mother is way smarter than I ever gave her credit for. So, I think it’s time to give honor where honor is due.
The following are life lessons I learned from my mother:
~ I am special. I have worth that far outweighs how I look, how smart I am, or what the scale reads.
~ Don’t be so busy working for God that you miss His instruction.
~ One of the first things you learn as a baby is how to find your balance. It’s a lesson you’ll need throughout your life.
~ Don’t be in such a rush to grow up. It’s nothing but bills and taxes.
~ It’s better to be single and lonely rather than married and miserable. There is no hell like being trapped in a bad marriage.
~ You can lie to everyone else, but always tell yourself the truth.
~ Drink more water.
~ Sometimes people don’t want to argue. They just want you to acknowledge their hurt.
~ Take life one day at a time… One minute at a time when necessary.
~ Pick your battles. Ask yourself, “Is this the mountain I’m willing to die on?”
~ Be mindful of the seasons of your life. Know when to move forward, let go, or stay put.
~ Finding true love starts with loving yourself.
~ Nobody can make you do something or feel a certain way without your permission.
~ A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips.
~ When God is silent that means He’s working. Trust Him.
~ Relax. Some things come with age.
~ Don’t use so much salt.
~ Don’t focus on your looks and forget about your character. After all, pretty is as pretty does.
~ Never turn down a mint.
~ Life's not fair, and it's not supposed to be.
~ When you lose someone, you’re going to feel angry, depressed, bitter, and lonely. It’s perfectly normal. Take your time and grieve.
~ Bloom where you’re planted.
~ Eat your vegetables.
~ When it comes to romantic relationships, it’s hard to love someone you don’t like. There is something to be said for having a spark.
~ Your father never hit you. Thus, don’t ever let another man think he can.
~ Most of the time, bad relationships don't just happen. Learn to see the red flags.
~ Don’t unpack all of your emotional baggage in the first month of any relationship. Wait before you invest.
~ Not everything is the way that it appears. Ask God to open your eyes.
~ People are watching you. You’re a role model, whether you like it or not.
~ You can do anything you set your mind to. Anything.
~ If you love it, let it kill you (translation: choose your vices wisely).
~ You teach people how to treat you.
~ Do what you have to do. Life is short.
~ Be the best you that you can be.
And last but certainly not least... always, always send thank you cards.
Got comments? Drop me a line.
CBN IS HERE FOR YOU!
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting?
Are you facing a difficult situation?
A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.
|