Life, unlike crossword puzzles, doesn’t come with the answers tucked away neatly in the back. Most of the time, we're just guessing and hoping something fits. Along the way, we pick up lessons—some subtle, some messy, and many of them unexpected.
At 64, I’ve realized it’s not about solving every clue or getting everything right. It’s about the process—embracing the small moments, laughing at ourselves when we’ve been guessing wrong all along, and finding comfort in not knowing while still making an effort to learn and grow.
Here are 26 lessons I’ve picked up along the way—from A to Z. Think of these lessons as a fresh, organic, gluten-free alphabet soup for the soul—comforting, nourishing, and just the thing we need when life feels a bit cold, too chaotic, or uncertain. They’re not perfect, and neither am I, but maybe they’ll make you pause, reflect, or even smile.
A. Adaptability is Key to Survival
Plans change, doors close, and life throws curveballs. And, when one door closes, a window opens—but here’s the rub: more often than not, it’s stuck or painted shut. The solution? Maybe it’s grabbing a sledgehammer, watching a YouTube tutorial, or just calling a handyman.
B. Cherish the Small Moments
The simple things—like listening to a chorus of cicadas or watching lightning bugs on a warm evening—are the ones you hold onto forever.
C. Community is Everything
Whether it’s neighbors waving as you walk the dog or friends holding you steady when the world wobbles, your people remind you that you’re part of something bigger.
D. Mindfulness Matters
The little things—the taste of a perfect tomato or the way someone smiles with their whole face—are what make life feel real.
E. Empathy is Transformative
When you take the time to see life through someone else’s eyes, it changes everything. It’s more than understanding them—it’s about growing yourself.
F. Find Magic in the Everyday
You can see everything as mundane or extraordinary. Magic is everywhere—you just need to pause long enough to notice.
G. Growth is a Personal Recipe
Everyone brings their own unique flavor to the world—some sweet, some spicy, and a few that are... an acquired taste. Embrace your individuality, even if it’s a bit unconventional, while honoring the foundation you’ve inherited
H. Heritage is a Treasure
Recipes, stories, and traditions keep us connected—not just to the past but to something bigger than ourselves.
I. Hold on to Hope
Hope doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it’s just a quiet nudge to keep moving forward, even when the road feels rough.
J. Kindness and Curiosity Can Change the World
An open mind paired with simple acts of kindness can reshape how we see the world—and how we treat each other.
K. Laughter is a Survival Skill
When everything feels like it’s falling apart, a good laugh can pull you back together. It’s the best medicine—no prescription needed.
L. Life is Messy but Beautiful
A cluttered desk, a sink full of dishes, or a plan that goes sideways—it’s all part of the story. The messiness is where the meaning lives.
M. Life’s Quirks Are Its Greatest Gift
Mismatched socks, crooked family portraits, and offbeat jokes—those quirks make us unforgettable.
N. Love is Expressed in Unique Ways
Love often whispers instead of shouting. Sometimes, it’s a warm meal waiting for you or your dad quietly making sure your car’s oil is changed.
O. Never Underestimate the Power of Showing Up with Love
A hug, a plate of food, a kind word—little acts of love remind us we’re never truly alone.
P. Parents Are Just People Too
There’s no manual for being a parent—though if there were, they probably wouldn’t read it. Sure, they’ll mess up (sometimes spectacularly), but they’re trying—and that’s worth forgiving.
Q. Question the Answers
Don’t be afraid to ask “why.” Whether it’s a family rule or the way the world works, curiosity opens doors.
R. Racism is a Learned Behavior
Prejudices don’t come out of nowhere, but they can be unlearned. It starts by challenging what you think you know.
S. Resilience is Baked in the Hard Times
Heartbreaks and tough days build the grit to keep going—like dough strengthened through kneading.
T. Some Lessons Don’t Hit Until Later
Things your parents said or moments you didn’t understand may come back when you least expect it—and suddenly, make sense.
U. Strength is About Heart
Real strength is facing the world with courage, hope, and determination—even when it’s hard.
V. Sometimes, the Best Lessons Are Unintentional
We often learn the most from what people don’t say or do on purpose. Their quiet actions reveal what’s possible. Pay attention.
W. Not Every Battle Needs to Be Fought
Not every fight or point is worth proving. Choose your battles wisely, and don’t waste your time on hills not worth dying on.
X. We All Carry Unseen Weights
Everyone has something they’re wrestling with, even if you can’t see it. A little kindness goes a long way.
Y. Just Show Up
Life isn’t about nailing every moment. It’s about being there, trying, and laughing when you mess up—because you will, and that’s okay.
Z. Do the Right Thing, Even When It’s Hard
Being kind or standing up for what’s right isn’t always easy—but it’s what matters most in the end.
Life’s Ongoing Lessons
Writing down these 26 lessons reminded me that life isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about figuring things out as you go. Some lessons I’m still learning; others, I’m relearning because apparently, I missed the bright yellow sticky note on my desk the first time. And new ones keep surprising me when I least expect it.
The biggest lesson of all? We never stop learning. Life keeps teaching. The best we can do is show up, pay attention, and grow. It’s not about getting everything right—it’s about enjoying the process together.