Ryan's Rules to Live By

[Note: These are, specifically, Ryan's rules to live by -- if you're anyone else, your results may and probably will vary.]

1. Just because you can see the future doesn't mean anyone else can (even if it is bloody obvious). This is okay. Take a deep breath and let things play out.

2. Just because you can see the future doesn't mean it has to happen. Even if it is the most wonderful thing ever imagined by anyone. That being said, "Don't stop believin'."

3. When in doubt, wear black.

4. Depression only has as much power as you give him.
   4a. DON'T GIVE HIM ANY.
   4b. Whenever he does start hissing in your general direction, smash him with a really big rock. Every time he starts hissing in your general direction for the rest of your life. You can do it.

5. Ponies make (almost) everything better.

6. SETBACKS HAPPEN. They make you feel worthless and that sucks out loud, but they are a totally natural, completely normal part of recovery.
   Recovery, by the way, is not an easy thing.

7. If patience was easy (refer to Rule 1 and Rule 2), anybody could do it.

8. Never go anywhere without your camera.

9. Knowing what you want and trying to get it is not a bad thing . . . but you do not have to turn into a total dick -- also, turning into a total dick will usually get you the exact opposite of what you want. Duh.

10. When someone gives you a compliment, whether you think you deserve it or not, just smile and say thank you. Particularly if the "someone" in question happens to be a total stranger.

11. You're stronger than you think.

12. Giving or receiving, forgiveness feels good.

13. Your mom is just one person. There are countless people in your life (not to mention all the people you haven't met yet) who either flat-out don't care or love you more because you're gay.
   13a. There are lots of people in the world who think like your mom does, but they are greatly outnumbered by people who . . . know better. It gets better. The future's going to be awesome, because we are all making it that way now.

14. Yes, okay, you screwed up. Big time. That doesn't mean you can't make amends (YOU'VE ALREADY BEEN FORGIVEN, AFTER ALL). That does mean you've learned things since then, and you'll never make the same mistake ever again.
   You're really truly awesome now (finally), and all of your friends are damn lucky to have you in their lives.

15. Depression thinks you're fat.
   This is a great reason to do an inordinate amount of situps and pushups just because it's a day that ends with "y."
   This is a horrible reason to avoid food for days at a time.

16. Try not to take yourself (or anyone else) too seriously.

17. Life is too short to ever be anything but happy.
   You're happier than ever, and good for you -- it was not easy -- but there are a few "simple" ways you could be so happy that people's brains start melting (or, um, something like that). Go get 'em.

18. Listen to your instincts. They're almost always right about everything.

19. Dare to hope.