Be An Angel

For as long as I can remember I've had this "Be an Angel" poster hanging in my room. Beneath the cute little girls is a list of 18 examples on how to BE and angel. I've always thought this poster was adorable, but the other day I actually read it through and found a new appreciation for the advice! I love it because its simple and simple is always best.

Reach for the stars

We hear this phrase all the time growing up, but it is so important to keep creating goals that are bigger than ourselves. Dive into the imagination you had when you were six-years-old and anything in the universe was possible (it still is)!

Share your favorite things with others

My six-year-old self interpreted this as "share your toys with your friends, sharing is caring, etc." Now, I think it means to share who you are with the world. Everyday, every person you have a conversation with, share with them what you're passionate about! Being self-expressed and inspiring others is the best feeling.

Keep your halo polished

Take care of yourself-- emotionally and physically.

Show respect for older people

I learn the most when I approach people with the intention they have something to teach me, something to contribute. I think my generation is especially skeptical about listening to older generations because we tend to think they don't "get our lifestyle" or "the modern digital world." However, our elders have so much insight, so many stories and infinite lessons to teach us. They're going to share them regardless, so it would make sense to be quiet and just listen.

Always mind your manners

Say your "please" and "thank you's," they really make a difference.

Make friends with someone who is shy

Befriending someone who may not have as loud a voice or outgoing a personality as you could make a significant difference in their lives. This action will encourage and empower them to be self-expressed.

Plant a garden for the butterflies

Create a space for natural beauty to live with you and around you.

Say at least one nice thing to someone everyday

Instead of complaining about how slow your barista is making your coffee, compliment her on her beautiful smile. If you are totally inspired by a lecture your professor gives, let him or her know! Acknowledge your friends, family and the people you love for being who they are.. every day!

Never make fun of anyone

Now I love me some sarcasm, but there is a time and a place for jokes. I get caught up in it all the time, gossiping that is, but I always feel all icky when I'm doing it. Don't get down if you catch yourself being not-so-nice, just acknowledge you're doing it and create something positive instead!

Make your bed every morning

Take care of your home. Your bed is your sanctuary, keep it tidy.

Talk to plants to help them grow

Be kind to the earth! With everything we take from her, the mother of all living things deserves some lovin' in return!

Think happy thoughts

When I get in "blah" moods (we all get in them) and nothing seems to excite me or get me to snap me out of it, I make a list of my favorite things/ what I'm grateful for. Whether it be my fabulous friends, making guacamole or swimming in the ocean, just thinking about little things I love reminds me my mood is just negative thoughts and I can change them every moment.

Don't make too much noise when you flap your wings

We all have opinions. We all have things we are passionate about-- issues that really burn for us. It is so, so important to share your thoughts in a way that inspire people rather than make them wrong so you can be right. Instead of trying to flap your wings louder than everyone, just flap and lead by example. People will follow.

Clean up after yourself. Clean up after others

We are responsible for the messes we make.. and not just washing our dishes after dinner. We can't assume someone else will clean up the mess. For example, the oil spill in the gulf. We can blame the oil companies until our faces turn blue, but it is all of our messes.

Donate part of your allowance to a worthy cause

Find a cause that inspires you and support it! Every week, every month or even once a year, donate a portion of your savings to the cause. If you can't donate money, donate yourself, your voice and your time. Speak up and spread awareness about the issue.

Always tell the truth

Not only should we always tell the truth literally, but also be true to ourselves. I get an uneasy feeling when I am not being true to what I stand for and what I care about. People may not agree with your opinions or who you are, but keep being you.

Be patient with those who don't fly as fast as you do

I tend to take on things that simply cannot be accomplished by one person. When expressing yourself and sharing your ideas with people you care about, be patient. Patience is a constant teacher in my life, reminding me that although every person and living thing moves at their own pace and rhythm, when we stop, acknowledge and empower them, we can powerfully work together.

Sprinkle a little stardust wherever you go

Everywhere you go, every person you meet, shine your light. Share yourself and give yourself away. Especially when you feel out of place, out of your comfort zone, confused or scared, those are the most powerful times to shine, shine, shine!

Now go be an angel!

With love and stardust,

Alex