I've learned a thing or two
that I was never taught
and no one ever told me
things I picked up
along the way
like burrs stuck to the end
of my sleeve

If you don't want them to know
that you kissed that boy
then don't wear red lipstick
(or any dark shade)
that might leave a mark
across his pretty little face
or on his rosebud lips

Don't put out a cigarette
and then light it again
it'll have a bad taste
(no matter how recent)
the same goes for old flames
don't light them again
it will never feel the same

Some people are friends
and others are not
try to come to peace with this
(if you succeed tell me how)
try not to try so very hard
to impress the indifferent
with who you are not

The very best company
will always be your own
so get to know yourself
(even if you don't like yourself)
take yourself out for coffee
and catch up on the events that have
transpired since your last moment alone


Start a coin jar
to keep on your shelf
and empty your pockets into it
(everytime you get home)
keep it there for minor emergencies
like greasy takeout at 2am
or a sorely needed pack of smokes

Have a plan for the future
don't wait till you're there
to map out your journey in a hurry
(though nothing will happen as you plan it)
your ideas will change constantly
but you will always be moving forward
towards a destination

Do not ever in your life
leave an empty milk carton
in the refrigerator
(this applies to all things in life)
just simply replace it
do not make it a problem
for the next person in want of milk

Don't ask questions
you don't want to know
the answer to
(don't be curiosity's *****)
know your mind enough
to know the things
you do not want to know

Don't be with someone who
doesn't think you're beautiful
first thing in the morning
(and tells you so repeatedly)
you will never be content with
one another if coffee is the only
thing that makes you feel alive at 5am

And finally
paint with the big brush
outside of the lines
use every color you can find
do so with passion
and you will be unstoppable
and content