The Raytopian's Guide to the Planet (don't ask about Raytopia because, frankly, I never quite understood it in the first place. It seemed strangely appropriate though looking back).
1. Hold on tight to the people that make you feel happy or safe or more like you. Ditch the ones that don't.
2. Never stop learning. Even if you're learning about the ingredients of Sugar Pops, keep reading and asking and thinking.
3. Take lots of pictures in college. Label them. Write down funny things your roommates and friends say. Put it in a scrapbook and drag it out when those friends come over. Tell them, " Can you believe we were that young and stupid?"
4. Vote. But first, figure out why you're voting (and for whom).
5. Study what your heart tells you to in college, even if it's interpretive dance in a mud bog. Surely to goodness there's a career in there somewhere, although you might have to live in Elko to make a living.
6. Recognize your spirituality. I don't care what you believe in. But believe in it and draw strength from it.
7. Laugh a lot. Laugh when our fall down or when you're stressed out or you're all alone or when you remember folks that you've loved and lost. People might think you're crazy, but at least those folks will leave you alone.
8. Drink lots of water. It thins mucous and gives you a healthy glow. Plus, it's cheap.
9. Don't get credit cards. If you do, pay them off. Every month. Build a savings account. Don't buy crap.
10. Love. Love as much as you possibly can. Love your family and friends and enemies. Love the smell of kudzu blossoms on summer evening and the sound of a cardinal outside your window. Love the Bulldogs (BOOO) or the VOLS (WHOOOO) or the Gators (God forbid). Love the fact that you are alive and whole. Love the fact that you CAN love. Then tell folks about it.
Thanks Heather.
Amber
