Inspire(d).

A lesson we can all learn from The Hunger Games.

Sometimes, books teach you things. (hi, kindergarten.) 

And unexpected books force you to take a closer look at your life - namely, the way you handle annoying-ass things like railroad apartments - and ask yourself ‘what have i learned from this situation?’ 

Point: I have lived in New York for exactly 11 months now. I’ve learned a LOT of things that, if I’m being brutally honest, I probably wouldn’t have learned had I stayed in the Midwest. Or else, it would’ve taken me a hell of a lot longer to come to terms with certain things. Like niceness. Midwest nice, you are a real thing that can screw people over. Sometimes, not always. Often, in roommate-related situations. 

Lesson one, in which I used to be too nice and I wasn’t selfish enough. Now you’re scratching your ombre-haired head. Hokay, let me explain: In a city that’ll mull you over while you’re taking 30 seconds to pull out your MetroCard to get onto a packed subway car full of people vying for the exact same job you are, it’s easy to be selfish. But I’m not talking about grabbing the last Alexander Wang T at a sample sale (not that I’ve ever done that…what?). I’m mostly talking about flaunting your accomplishments. Not being afraid to say ‘no’ if you’re overloaded, either in your personal life or at work. Turning down a first kiss post first-date that gave you a slimy gut feeling. Sayonara, OkCupid dates. 

Two, be kind to unexpected people. Like certain homeless folk or the Italian guy who works at whichever deli you frequent or midnight pizza joint you order from waaaay too often. They’ll help you out, even tell you amazing stories guaranteed to break your heart. Concrete examples are failing me at the moment, but seriously - karma can be amazing, or it can kick you where it counts. 

What I’m essentially saying is, read The Hunger Games, people. Fight for your life all that is good and worth it.

M