“Yes.” One word. Say it as often as you can. It’s going to hurt sometimes. But you’ll gain more experience than any textbook can show you.

2. Stand up. Talk to him. Ask him questions. Kiss him. Don’t cower in the corner.

3. Fall in love with everyone but don’t regret it.

4. Open your ears and shut your mouth sometimes.

5. Don’t drag him around like it’s a game. You’ll break him.

6. Take naps. They’re your friend.

7. Hold everyone close. Some you’ll let go by choice, others by force, and some not at all. Love as much as you can.

8. Sit in the grass and stare up at the stars like you’re in a Nicholas Sparks book and embrace the paranoia of bugs crawling on your legs and noises in the woods. It isn’t perfect; don’t fool yourself.

9. Materialism isn’t worth it. Only keep the things from those who have left this world. If they left you in the dust and still breathe, burn the gifts they gave you. It’s worth it in the long run.

10. Cry. It’s okay. You have nothing to prove.