48 Lessons From My Brother, who became a Navy SEAL

Life provides many opportunities to reflect. Birthdays are one such occasion. Today, September 16th, is my brother’s birthday. As I have reread his letters to share them with you over this past year, I have been astounded at the many life lessons Chris passed along to me. In the spirit of celebrating his life and what would have been his 48th birthday, I present to you… 48 lessons from my brother, who became a Navy SEAL.

1.  Live in the moment – unexpected scenarios will arise.

2.  Be present – opportunities for joy exist. 

3.  Play – every minute is precious.

4.  Stay active – you’ll live longer.

5.  Be comfortable being alone – some of the best times are spent in solace.

6.  Don’t follow the crowd – adventure awaits.

7.  Notice the beauty around you – it’s everywhere.

8.  Define your happy place – enjoy it.

9.  Live life unregretfully – make choices that will help you achieve your goals.

10. Have fun – time passes quickly.

11. Connect with strangers – celebrate your shared humanity.

12. Slow down when you can – the grind will still be there.

13. Enjoy the good times – they might not be as frequent as you like.

14. Take chances – things might turn out pretty great.

15. Don’t take things for granted – little things do matter.

16. Learn to live with things you don’t understand  – they will happen.

17. View imposed limitations as temporary – everything has an ending.

18. Reach out to others – you might make their day.

19. Make time to send a card – it shows you care.

20. Be thoughtful in your interactions – everyone has a story.

21. Show compassion – life can be painful.

22. Follow your path – do what you do best.

23. Be someone’s champion – encouraging words make a difference.

24. Focus on details – it can make a larger task manageable.

25. Stay balanced – discipline your mind.

26. Use setbacks as motivation – you can always improve.

27. Push yourself to do more – go beyond your limits.

28. Look past discomfort – focus on the goal.

29. Be thankful – cherish your memories.

30. Share joy – it can help someone feel less lonely.

31. Lead by example – raise your standard of excellence.

32. Live with intention – every moment counts. 

33. Be determined to succeed – put in the effort required.

34. Embrace challenges – they will make you stronger.

35. Dream big – make a plan.

36. Work hard – you will be rewarded.

37. Grow up – accept life’s responsibilities.

38. Be a friend – connection is important.

39. Don’t give up – you can do hard things.

40. Inspire others – everyone needs a hero.

41. Say kind words – do good deeds.

42. Volunteer – others need you.

43. Stay hopeful – things might work out. 

44. Live a life of service – find your purpose.

45. Be generous – donate to a good cause.

46. Set boundaries – it’s healthy.

47. Learn to let go – you aren’t always in control.

48. Celebrate accomplishments – extraordinary efforts are worthy of recognition.

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