Reasons to be Cheerful: Life’s too short (and so am I) By Vicky Edwards

There is less than a month until I hit a two-digit number that feels particularly alarming. In between fretting about impending infirmity, deepening wrinkles and middle-age spread, I have been pondering on lessons learnt and that I will carry into my dotage.

By no means a definitive list, this much I know:

‘This too shall pass.’ My mantra when the going gets tough, even the darkest and most difficult days will not last forever.

I will never like egg white. Fine when scrambled, as part of an omelette or in cake (obviously), no matter how I try, I cannot eat (and keep down) the white of a poached, boiled or fried egg.

Family isn’t about sharing a bloodline. I do not share a single piece of genetic material with some of the most important people in my life.

If it has a ‘hand wash only’ label, I shouldn’t ever buy it. Said piece of clothing will have a very short lifespan if I do.

Enlightening, imagination-stretching and soothing, reading makes me so, so happy. Teaching children to read is imperative and we Mums and Dads can light that spark. As author Emily Buchwald said, "Children are made readers on the laps of their parents."

No smell is more comforting than the neck of a dusty donkey.

I am hopeless at being assertive in the face of a showdown. The skill of being able to stand your ground and conduct a rational argument should be taught in schools.

There is no such thing as too much love. (Unless you are an unhinged stalker.)

Some of the most rewarding connections I have made have been with people whom, seemingly, I have nothing in common. Discovering hidden depths, shared values or the same sense of humour is wonderful. We should never shy away from the opportunity to know someone.

If I win the lottery I will never drive again. Like maths, playing the violin and DIY, driving is just one of those things that I will always loath. Bring on six numbers, the bonus ball and a chauffeur!

Pantomime, puppies, hugs, fairground rides, roast spuds with gravy and swearing (sometimes needs must) are my most effective Bad Mood Destroyers.

Becoming a Celebrant was the most wonderful happy accident of my life. I truly love what I do.

No good will ever come of allowing someone to live rent free in my head. What other people think about me really is none of my business. Besides, grudges and resentments are a terrible waste of time and energy. And life, like me, is just too damn short.

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