What I know at 26:

Always keep a good book in your purse--it's both a secret and an escape plan (two good things to have). 

You cannot save people. You can only live your life the best you know how, with a strong set of values and a clear set of boundaries. 

Nor can you dwell too deeply on the choices of others. You cannot play things that have happened over and over in your head, wallowing in the bitter misery of truth. You can only feel responsible for what you yourself have done. (And you must allow yourself to let go of guilt, when guilt is clearly not yours to bear).

A lot of things are contagious--fear and anxiety, joy and laughter.

It is worth spending ridiculous amounts of money on proper winter garments. If you are clothed and shod properly, you can really survive anything. (The key: w a t e r p r o o f)

Be a person of your word. If you say you’re going to do something, then you need to do it. This is how you gift others the immeasurable pleasure of stability.

Another thing: fear does not absolve you from showing up.

xo

PS. Everything I knew at 25 remains true.