25 Things I learned by 25
Written by Avery Dinnel
Through the last 25 years I have learned a few things along the way. Like how important it is to
brush your teeth every morning to prevent stubborn cavities or when Travis from Hannah
Montana The Movie says “Life’s a climb, but the views great” he was indeed not lying. But
perhaps the most crucial thing I have learned is how much Jesus truly adores and
unconditionally loves me (and you too!).
Hi, my name is Avery Dinnel:) daughter of Eric and Tracey, oldest sister to the sweetest built in
besties, Channing and Delanie, and most importantly daughter of the Most High King, Jesus
Christ. I find joy in the silly little things like taking videos and pictures of people, places, and
things that make me smile, the perfect iced vanilla latte, sunrises on the beach and a cute
matching set that fits just right. As the oldest sister, I naturally have become the one to lend a
listening ear and give unsolicited advice. Mostly consisting of advice about how my sister styled
my favorite crewneck she borrowed without asking or the boys who I think are not worth their
time. On September 15, I had the privilege of celebrating 25 years on Earth! Thank you Jesus
for another trip around the sun! With that, I thought I would give 25 pieces of unsolicited advice
that I have learned by 25:)
1. Your worth is not defined by the titles you hold and the things you wear
Being a child of God is enough! His grace is forever sufficient for you.
a. 2 Corinthians 12:9
2. You can never truly be behind.
You may feel as if you are falling behind everyone else, but feelings are fleeting. You cannot be behind in your own life and path The Lord has so graciously carved out for you.
a. Proverbs 3:5
3. Someone else’s accomplishments do not diminish your own.
4. Sometimes you are not meant to be the overhead light that fills the entire room.
Take the pressure off yourself a little, because sometimes Jesus sends you into the dark room to be a match that produces a bunch of tiny little sparks. This is similar to one of my favorite Christmas traditions, the candlelight service; shine your little light so that His light ultimately captivates others.
5. Love is not the boy who pushes your boundaries.
a. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
b. 1 John 2:16
c. Proverbs 4:23
6. Wash your face every night. Seriously.
You will thank yourself in the morning when your foundation is not flaking off your precious skin and your mascara is not dripping down your face.
7. An apology without change is a form of manipulation.
8. You do not need all these fancy and expensive name brands.
It is not normal to own 1 let alone multiple designer bags. It is also not normal to buy new clothes for every event or occasion.
a. Matthew 6:19-20
9. Aging is a gift!
We are blessed to be given another day on this planet. Please spend your time worrying about people and things that matter rather than stressing over preventative wrinkle treatments.
a. Isaiah 46:4
b. 1 Samuel 16:7
10. Read your bible and spend time with God.
a. James 1:2-4
b. Psalm 46:10
11. Try to aim for 10k steps a day.
I know you hear this all the time, but I promise going on a silly little hot girl walk will help you mentally and physically.
12. Call your parents, not just when you need them.
Call them to check in and tell them you love them. Remember this is their first time living too.
13. Find your comfort movie or TV Show.
There’s going to be days you want to snuggle upon the couch and watch your show, find something that puts a little pep in your step!
14. Life might not always go according to plan, but it is always in our best interest it’s going according to His Plan.
a. Jeremiah 29:11
b. Isaiah 55:8-9
15. In general, if your friends do not support your relationship with your boyfriend, they probably have a reason not to.
16. Stand true to your values and boundaries. Do not bend them for anyone.
a. Romans 8:5-8
b. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
17. If you are worried about telling a friend or family member about something your
boyfriend did in order to protect their reputation, that is your sign right there.
18. There is a difference between privacy vs secrecy - know the difference.
a. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
19. Whatever passion The Lord placed on your heart, it is there for a reason. Lean into it.
20. Most of the time, my mom really did know what was best :) despite what my 16 year old overly confident know-it-all self thought.
21. A car cannot run without any gasoline. Food is our fuel.
22. Find a good morning and night routine, whatever it may look like for you!
For some this may contain an early morning alarm and workout paired with a 10 step skin care. For others it may look like listening to a podcast or worship song in the morning on your way to work, while sipping your silly little latte.
23. Actions always speak louder than words.
a. 1 John 3:18
24. Quality friendships are more important than quantity. Find the ones that refresh your soul.
a. Proverbs 27:9
25. And finally, remember that social media is a highlight reel.
People have the privilege of choosing what they want to share and post about their lives. Comparison is the thief of joy. Make sure to find joy in the mundane, for The Lord delights in the “boring” and quiet moments too.