Paper Hearts | ✓ | [ e d i t i n g ]

Chapter Twenty-four - A list

Dear You,

I'd like to start by saying You are very special! I picked a random address out of the phonebook, and it happened to be yours. Out of all the people in the book, you were the one I chose. So you are, indeed, very special. 

To start, I wrote this list because I'm hoping I can change your life, for the better, in the same way someone changed mine. This list is pliable to any age group, but if I'm being completely honest it's more for people ages 15-35.  Still, anyone can do it. Without further ado, the list.

1. Write a list like this (excuse my rhyme) to someone random, and send it to them. I recommend the phone book. From my experiences it's proved very useful for life changing events. and put this as number one on your list.

2. Grow fruit. Someone, in some way, fruit is the most life changing thing out there. Apples are the best. 

3. Hug someone sad. I did this, and I'll never regret it. Also, make sure it's a stranger. making friends is about having the courage to meet new people, and having hope that they'll accept you for you're true self. 

4. Sell Lemonade. Trust me, it's a classic.

5. Play music with people at a nursing home. They have the best, and sadest, stories. You'll be amazed at what you learn.

6. Buy lunch for someone who's homeless. They, too, have amazing stories. 

7. Ask someone if you can pet their dog. I know the whole "No pain, no gain" quote, but it doesn't mean you have to run into someone who's walking their dog. Seriously, if there is an easier way, take it.

8. Say hello in latin. (I've done this, and it will be a great accomplishment).

9. Strive for  happiness. Wherever people are, they try to be happy, even if they aren't aware of it. You deserve to be happy, and if you are, good, but if you aren't, well, I know you can find a way. 

I walked to the end of my driveway, and tucked the letter into the mailbox. When I went back inside, I smiled. Mom was dancing with Austin, the feminine man she'd fallen in love with. Theo was sitting cross legged on my bedroom floor, sticking magazine clippings on a large sheet of card paper. In the center of my room, Corra was trying to do wheelies, without any success.

I sat down next to Theo, who shot me one of his dazzling smile. I took the magazine and flipped through the pages, before looking at the center of the collage.

Happiness hung like a banner directly at the carousel horse's feet.