5 in 32. — Travis Hodges

1. Character>Gifting. When I think of the word integrity, I think of things like the Empire State Building. Not only is it large and beautiful but it is specifically designed to withstand the strongest of winds. Having character is a lot like that. Strong, secure, uncompromising.

I’ve learned that it’s better to have a little bit of talent but be trustworthy rather than be able to impress people but no one trusts you. Talent gets you in the door but it’s old school words like integrity, faithfulness and dependability that keep you in the room.

2. When it comes to your dreams, swing for the fences. You only have one life. One shot to knock it out of the park. Think of the people that the world admires. These are people who had a dream in their hearts and a willing hand to work at it. Don’t quit on the dream in your heart. Give it to God as a seed. Watch Him bring to blossom as a garden.

3. “Friends are friends forever...” If you can’t finish the last part of that lyric, Google it and enjoy the song. Trust me. My mom used to always say to me “Be careful who you call friend.” I wish that I would have listened to her more often. Some friendships are short. Others are seasonal. And yes, losing them is a painful feeling. But once you find true friends, hold on to them.

4. Life is shorter than we think, it’s better to be reconciled than right. I like to say that life is too short to live being offended. Some mountains are worth dying on, some fights are worth fighting. But sometimes they aren’t. Pick them wisely. But offering or receiving forgiveness is always the best idea. Saying the words “I’m sorry” or “forgive me” can heal even the worst of hurts.

5. “The choices you make might be a mistake. But it’s never too late to turn around.” Mistakes and errors happen. Almost daily. But you can have a comeback after a setback! You aren’t down and out. Repeating the mistake isn’t the way to go. But you can not only recover from your errors but you can become better because of them. Don’t stay down. There is a greater day ahead!