Always Irreplaceable.

I think too many people say that everything can be replaced. I disagree. What about family? What about friends? What about dreams we've had since we were kids? Or, for that matter, what about any dreams? If they ever meant anything, then they shouldn't be replaceable; they should be irreplaceable.

It's different to go through the "growing up" stage and abandoning your dream of being in a band to be a social worker. On the other hand, the more significant promises like "best friends forever" are always tougher to let go of. I did it in middle school and high school. But it's true - the first time is the hardest. It's not easy to feel replaceable.

So I figure that the best promise to make is one that I make to myself instead of someone else who would have the power to invalidate it at any point.

That promise? Be always irreplaceable.

Be among the few who are consistently true to their own values, family, and friends, and who work toward their goals instead of just leaving them written on a piece of paper that goes unnoticed. Stand up for yourself. Believe in yourself. But do the same for others. Remember that there's a difference between supporting someone and being a doormat. Know that other people do not make you important or special. You do that for yourself. If the day comes that a friend or close family member makes a major lifestyle change that you're not a part of, you'll wish that you had more of your own life plans. Make your plans and work toward them before that happens.

Don't always expect other people to consider your feelings - consider your own. I'm not advocating selfishness, but practicality and forward thinking.

And stop dreaming of living this way; actually live it. You might be replaceable to others, but you're irreplaceable to yourself. You are the only person who can live your life. That's what's not replaceable.