Rules to live by

Being back in my home town I've been thinking about where I used to be and we I am now in my life. I've gown up so much in the past couple years. Unfortunately I can't say the same for most people around here.

I don't know why people feel the need to waste their time and energy focusing on other people's faults. Just live and let live.

I've decided to write down some of my rules to live by. Maybe the right people will read this and it will click for them.

1. If you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all. I used to be one of the people who would complain to one friend about what annoyed me about the other friend. I realized how ridiculous this is. My rule now is that if I can't say something to someone's face then it shouldn't be said at all. This has really helped me stop focusing on the negative and pay attention to the positives in people. 
2. Don't use the word hate. There is really never a reason to ever use the word hate. Sure, saying you hate broccoli or something is fine since you can't hurt broccoli's feelings. Have you ever really thought about what it means? In my eyes saying hate means that I will never talk to this person, there isn't one thing I like about this person and I would be happy if I never saw them again. It's a mean thing to say and I have never met someone I feel comfortable saying it to. 
3. Patience really is key. Marriage has helped me realize how important patience really is. If you exercise a little patience you will see that the little things will stop bothering you and you are overall happier. It will help you listen better as well.

These are just 3. There is obviously the golden rule of treating others as you'd like to be treated which should cover everything in one. Let's be better people.