A few things I have learned… I learned that being imperfect makes you happier than trying to not be authentic with yourself. I learned to accept my imperfections and to be vulnerable to accepting myself. I know I have always done the best I can, that makes me happy. I learned that it's ok to put garbage in the bedroom can, it's ok to not put away clean laundry for days. It's ok to be happy with yourself. I learned most things I worry about never really happen.I have learned that fear of the future never helps, so only worry about right here, right now. I learned that people can say what they want about me. I can't control that. So I must live with my life so no one will believe the smear. I learned every achievement I have ever conquered was once considered impossible. Follow your dreams and never say never. I learned heroes take chances, it's not easy to be your own hero if you stay in your comfort zone. Reaching for your dream may involve chances, but the only way to reach them is to try. I learned actions really are louder than words, judge everyone by their ability to be as good as her/his word. Give a second chance once. I learned everyone has fears, never judge someone for their fears until you have walked in their shoes, you must have compassion. I learned... Look around any room and you will see someone who is being abused, someone in love, someone dealing with health issues, someone with crazy family members. Be understanding because one day it will be you. I learned life happens, you will win and you will lose, you will love and lose love. No one can take your memories, education and experience from you. Hold them close. I learned when you have been abused, it is important to learn early that looking back is only good to remember the lesson. That is all you should hold onto. I learned... Never give your financial future away, trust yourself and protect yourself always! I learned trust is key to any relationship, that said be very careful to whom you trust. Trust is earned by doing what they say they will do, keeping their word and always having your back. I learned everything I have experienced happened for a higher cause. I learned lessons from the good and bad chapters of my life. I am finally at peace and I am the person I want to be. I learned... After abuse parents need to understand the best thing you can do for your kids, is to do everything you can to be whole again. I learned every problem I face is an opportunity to learn something. The biggest lessons in my life have been learned from the darkest days. I learned that I need to depend on myself to make myself happy. Depending on others to make me happy will not end well. I learned saving for your future gives security and freedom. Without a little nest egg we live in fear which causes stress and can make you sick. I learned friends are the family that had other mothers. To really live a fulfilled life, hold your friends close and do the work to stay connected. I learned time goes faster with every day that passes. Do not let yesterday steal another moment of your life.