So Sunday February 19th I turn 48. I don’t like birthdays. They are simply a reminder I’m not as young as I feel. However, they are a time to reflect on what has transpired thus far in one’s life. Here’s a little of what I’ve learned. You will survive almost every tragedy that befalls you You DON’T have to try to make people like you. Just be the type of person it’s easy to like It takes more energy to hate than to forgive You will never have enough money to do all the things you want to do  True joy comes from experiences not things Developing skills and pursuing activities that make you a better person but no money at all are indeed worthwhile Loving with full abandon is the surest way to keep your spouse happy  When cooking a steak, trust the process. Don’t check the meat every minute. Find the time and temperature that works and trust the process People will always disappoint you. They’re human. That’s what humans do It’s okay to be a nobody in the world’s eyes. What matter is being a somebody your wife and children can depend on “He who conquers his mind conquers the world.” Contentment is the brass ring not the brass ring Age is in fact just a number. How you feel is what matters most Stay active. It’s magical how amazing being healthy feels Not drinking alcohol is awesome If you smile at the world, more times than not it will smile back at you. Sounds cheesy, but it’s true Divine appointments are real. I’ve had more than I can count Managing the distance between action and reaction can change everything Trying to control others is pointless. You can only control yourself You don’t need nor can explain the actions of others. Leave it to them. You are only accountable for your own actions Apologize quickly Being a good listener is far more important than being a good talker It’s ok to keep your opinion to yourself It’s ok to disagree with people just do it respectfully Like C.S. Lewis said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” I’m sure there’s more. After all, it’s been nearly half a century. However these are 20 of the main lessons I’ve taken from life so far. I can wait to see what the next 48 holds.