These are my truisms, written in 2016, inspired by Jenny Holzer. I used to read them nightly, a quiet ritual to make space for myself in a loud world. Some faded over time, softened by hope, lost in naivety. But the ones that stayed sharp helped me find my way back, to myself, to those I love.

I don’t often share my writing nor I consider myself to be a writer, but tonight, I am sharing these thoughts, just in case something here lands where it’s needed.

• More often than not, people help others not out of kindness, but because of how it makes them look. Don’t do that yourself.

• Gatekeeping is the death of society.

• Drinking alcohol is stupid.

• Smoking cigarettes is stupid.

• Being grateful doesn’t mean you owe your loyalty to someone else’s ego.

• People will always want to be the main (and only) character—even in your own story.

• Don’t look for support where you can’t find it.

• Exercise.

• Eat healthy.

• There is something insidiously sad about being loved without being seen.

• Call your parents once a week, at least.

• People fall apart.

• Privilege clouds judgement.

• Education and curiosity allow understanding and social mobility. It doesn’t need erasing—it needs fixing.

• Social media is a mask.

• Keep most realities to yourself.

• In adulthood, politeness matters more than feelings or truth. You can’t change that.

• If you feel you need to dim your light, chances are you’re in the wrong crowd.

• Money is absolutely necessary—and more than okay to want—but it’s not the only measure of success.

• Being with the wrong people affects your health, mood, finances, career, and spirit. Choose wisely.

• People don’t really care about anyone’s real issues.

• People don’t tolerate real vulnerability—it’s a mirror they don’t want to face.

• Don’t be 100% honest.

• Help people, then let go. Protect your energy.

• The world doesn’t owe you shit.

• Stay silently true to yourself.

• “The norm” or “socially accepted” does not mean fair, real, or trustworthy. You don’t have to participate.

• Keep faith that by doing this, things will get better, and you’ll see your family and friends again.

• Contrary to popular belief, the spiritual and the scientific go hand in hand.

• Say what’s polite, but silently—and relentlessly—fight for what’s real.

#truisms #hardtruths #life