Here was 22: 1. Peace is always worth a conversation. 2. Always take the opportunity to gift kindness to somebody. Sincere compliments and gratitude make people glow like nothing else. 3. A golden heart that’s still remembered is worth more than a crown. 4. My mum is the only woman who’ll love me unconditionally - return the privilege. 5. My dad is the only man who wants me to exceed his own achievements - listen to his advice and take his support. 6. My health is the priority. Time, relationships, education, wealth all wither in its absence. 7. Tell the truth or at least do not lie. 8. Be precise in my speech and true to my word. It’s the fastest way to build trust, loyalty and friendship. 9. If you don’t stand up against anything then you stand for nothing. 10. Taking responsibility for all outcomes good and bad seems empowering and liberating. 11. A problem ignored is just a problem delayed and multiplied. 12. The way I present myself to the world matters. A cared-for physique, good posture and open expression are free ways to do this. 13. Travel and adventure. 14. Make friends with people who want the best for your health, happiness and success. 15. My best friend brings out the best in me. 16. Comparison is the thief of joy. 17. I know when it’s time to walk away from people, trust my gut. 18. Paying attention to how I feel is cause for feeling worse. Happiness is never the goal it’s the epiphenomenon of an endeavour with meaning. 19. Presence and gratitude solve most problems. Add sleep and steak and I’ll certainly feel fine. 20. My mind is a gift and so is my reality, don’t take substances which deprive me of them. I’ll take my existence raw. (No alcohol and drugs). 21. God is giving, knock and he shall answer but I must ensure to have “tied my camel” first. 22. A life with faith in the divine seems to me brighter than one without.

Never hand over your heart before the foundation is tested. In today’s world, emotional maturity is rare. So many people are still bleeding from old wounds, and instead of healing, they turn the next person into their battleground for their revenge. This is a great reflection Shahrad, I appreciate you taking the time to write about this. It reminds me of the saying “by your fruits you shall know them.” Whilst the truth will always eventually come out, the initial signs can look to be the real deal. The important part is to tear yourself away when you realise what you thought you had, was in fact a lie or facade. In my own experience, realising your judgement is off is one of the hardest things. It can be shattering in a way. If you can’t trust your own judgement then what can you trust. It’s important to build yourself back up, and go again. Sounds like you did well in spite of the circumstances. Good job.