Well, I turned 40 today. Truth be told, I was kind of dreading this day. I only see myself as young, so 40 puts a bit of a cramp in that idea.
Milestone birthdays have a way of making you reflect on the past and contemplate the future. So I wrote down 40 lessons I’ve learned in my 40 years of life. This isn’t an exhaustive list. These aren’t the only things I’ve learned in 40 years. Some are serious and some are fun. I hope you find them helpful.
1. Invest in experiences, not things
2. Be known for generosity
3. Real friends are rare, cherish them
4. You can’t out give God
5. Pride is a killer; just apologize
6. You’re going to spend 1/3 of your life working, so love what you do and do it well.
7. Forgive freely; trust selectively
8. Some things are worth the wait (see 2004 Red Sox)
9. Tell your kids you love them multiple times every day
10. I am loved by the most amazing woman I’ve ever known. If you are loved by an amazing person, don’t screw it up.
11. Being a dad is the greatest privilege and honor of my life
12. Being a pastor is a great calling and an even greater joy
13. I gave my life to Jesus at 19. The last 20 years have been way better than the first 20.
14. Hobbies are great. Hobbies that pay you are even better. (I learned this lesson from Gene Simmons of Kiss)
15. Almost losing Mia 3 years ago made me realize how fragile life is. Don’t take it for granted.
16. God has been gracious to me way beyond what I deserve. ( I guess that’s why it’s called grace )
17. Your health is important; don’t neglect it
18. 1982-1991 was the golden of music. Music hasn’t been nearly as good since.
19. Video games make you stupid.
20. Reading 100 books a year is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made
21. Doing concerts at home with my kids is one if the funnest things I do, period.
22. Be wise with your words. Most conflict happens as a result of a poor choice of words.
23. Simplify your life. You’ll be happier in the long run.
24. Keep pursuing your wife. Keep doing the things you did to get her.
25. Nothing good happens without bring intentional.
26. A good name is better than silver or gold (Prov. 22:1)
27. Never skimp on your shoes or your mattress. You back will thank you later.
28. Money spent on a journal is always a good investment
29. Read through the Bible every year
30. Teach your kids to love Star Wars
31. Set bold goals and pursue them tenaciously
32. Growing up in a broken home broke. Thankfully, God turns brokenness into mosaics.
33. Teach your kids to love Jesus. There is no greater blessing than hearing your kids pray.
34. Putting your faith in politicians is a recipe for disappointment
35. Yes, vegetables suck. Get over it. You have to eat them anyway.
36. Nothing can substitute for integrity
37. Overnight success takes at least 7 years. That means, don’t give up.
38. There’s nothing like being debt-free. Strive for it and experience it yourself.
39. My favorite sound in the world is the sound of Carey laughing. So I try to make her laugh everyday.
40. The best is yet to come
What are some lessons you’ve learned?