A few thoughts from Paige

12-19-10 9:20AM

1. You're lucky if you know what you want early in life. Take dancing, for her. She started at the age of 3 or so and decided she wanted to do it for the rest of her life. In this way, she got an early start. Her dad didn't figure it out until after a couple of degrees, and you can argue that he wasted time learning what he wasn't going to be doing. I believe that I have known what I wanted ever since we went to Yellowstone National Park in 2003. My parents say that I had the passion even before then.

2. What does it mean to want something? It's something that keeps you up at night, and that you think about all the time. It's something you can't live without. Some people never get it, but once you do, you will do anything to get what you want. Again with dance. She's giving up economic stability, the chance to go to college with her peers, and the chance to start a family early in life. It's admirable.

3. Listen to what your mind and body need. If you need a day off from dance, take it, because it might prevent problems later. If you need a mental health day, take it, because you'll be more productive after the rest. If you feel like you need chocolate (unless you always want chocolate) or cream cheese, or salad, or guacamole, there's probably a reason for it. You know yourself best, so listen to yourself. Often your body will know what you need before your mind comes up with a reason for it. Something that seems unreasonable can be good for you; we have instincts for a reason.