12 Simple Truths for the Youth to Embrace

As a person, a woman, a mother, a veteran, dystonia advocate and Astrologer - if I were asked to offer advice to a young person, here are a few comments that I may incite:

1.     Understand what it takes to survive daily. Watch your parents and their struggle to protect you from harm, keep you fed, clothed and sheltered.

2.     Find something of value within yourself. This may be something as simple as your willingness to help others, or something you admire about your own appearance, such as your eyes or smile. Look and reflect upon yourself every day. Appreciate that.

3.     Learn something new about yourself and your surroundings on a regular basis. Teach others what you learn.

4.     Spend time each day to nurture your heart, body, mind and soul. This action will allow you to care for someone else when they are in need.

5.     Draw upon your creative self. Spend time each day to bring out your inner joy. For example, when on a walk, take a photo to capture the moment. Dance to the music of your mind. Share your happiness and inspiration with those you encounter along your path.

6.     Clean and organize something in your environment daily. It is said ‘cleanliness is next to godliness’. Realize it is in these small tasks that anchor your heart and soul, which will offer you a sense of purpose.

7.     Reach out to a friend, parent, sibling, neighbor or someone you admire on a regular basis. Staying connected to others is what will enhance your desire to survive and truly live.

8.     Allow yourself to explore the depth of your feelings no matter what they may be. Share them so that you may release your pain, shame and especially your joys to more deeply connect to those you love.

9.     Learn everything that excites you, explore the world around you, gain knowledge so you may share your wisdom with a wider audience.

10.  Dare to climb high through self-discipline, respect for others and a willingness to work for what you desire and how you wish to be seen to the world.

11.  Be open-minded and allow the mind and thoughts of your friends, family and peers to ignite a passion for intellectual discussion. Accept that no two people think or process information the same, yet we each have a valid window of knowledge into universal intelligence.

12.  Be the joy and compassion you wish to see in the world. Help at least one person a day. Even if it's as simple as to offer directions, to say thank you or to be mindful of your own behavior – these simple acts of kindness may set the boundaries and instill the potential trust needed, to embrace the world you fill with love and joyfulness.

Written by Linda Marie Furiate © July 2026