Coming of Age

What I’ve Learned

I've learned that I like my teacher because she cries when we sing "Silent Night."
-Age 6

I've learned that our dog doesn't want to eat my broccoli either.
-Age 7

I've learned that when I wave to people in the country, they stop what they are doing and wave back.
-Age 9

I've learned that just when I get my room the way I like it, Mom makes me clean it up again.
-Age 12

I've learned that if you want to cheer yourself up, you should try cheering someone else up.
-Age 14

I've learned that although it's hard to admit it, I'm secretly glad my parents are strict with me.
-Age 15

I've learned that silent company is often more healing than words of advice.
-Age 24

I've learned that brushing my child's hair is one of life's great pleasures.
-Age 26

I've learned that wherever I go, the world's worst drivers have followed me there.
-Age 29

I've learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it.
-Age 39

I've learned that there are people who love you dearly but just don't know how to show it.
-Age 42

I've learned that you can make some one's day by simply sending them a little note.
-Age 44

I've learned that the greater a person's sense of guilt, the greater his or her need to cast blame on others.
-Age 46

I've learned that children and grandparents are natural allies.
-Age 47

I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
-Age 48

I've learned that singing "Amazing Grace" can lift my spirits for hours.
-Age 49

I've learned that motel mattresses are better on the side away from the phone.
-Age 50

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a man, by the way he handles a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.
-Age 51

I've learned that keeping a vegetable garden is worth a medicine cabinet full of pills.
-Age 52

I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you miss them terribly after they die.
-Age 53

I've learned that making a living is not the same thing as making a life.
-Age 58

I've learned that if you want to do something positive for your children, work to improve your marriage.
-Age 61

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
-Age 62

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.
-Age 64

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