Inspired as I am by Gibbs, I give you my own list of "rules". What are Your rules?

1.       I've come to a point in my life where I no longer have time or energy to hold on to what hurts.

2.       Blaming someone else for something I allowed is not only wrong, but stupid as well.

3.       Diplomacy isn't just knowing what to say and how to say it. Sometimes, it's knowing when to keep quiet.

4.       Sex, good as it is, is not enough to sustain a relationship.

5.       Gibbs Rule #36: If you feel like you're being played, you probably are.

6.       Be careful who you tell your truths to.

7.       People do not change unless they are given a dire reason.

8.       The rules apply to me, too.

9.       Love is a four-letter word.

10.   Action is the only thing guaranteed to bring change.

11.   A declaration of love twenty-five years after the fact is way too little, too late.

12.   FaceBook and other social-media sites are only as bad or dangerous as your own intent.

13.   Do not spend time and energy chasing after people that make no effort to be part of your life.

14.   ALWAYS have a Plan-B.

15.   Get it in writing.

16.   There's not as much wrong with me as I spent most of my life believing.

17.   Always go with your gut.

18.   Music ALWAYS helps, especially if it's The Beatles.

19.   Balance is important, if you can find it.

20.   Simplify.

21.   Perception is reality.

22.   Education is never wasted, and you can learn from anywhere or anyone if you open your mind, eyes and ears.

23.   Life becomes easier once you stop taking it so seriously.

24.   Keep yourself healthy. You're the only you you've got.

25.   Participate in your own life. It's better than sitting back waiting.

26.   Know what you are getting into, before you agree to it.

27.   Always get a receipt.

28.   No matter how hard you try, you can never completely cat-proof your home.

29.   Don’t ask the question if you don’t want the answer.

30.   Listen to your conscience. It is there for a reason.

31.   Pride is not as important as self-respect. There IS a difference.

32.   Whenever possible, explain yourself in person.

33.   Sometimes, you just have to stop and pet the cat.

34.   We’re all masochists in our own way.

35.   You can regret a decision yet still know it was right.

36.   Sometimes, you've gotta break the rules.

37.   *Everyone* has an agenda.

38.   Blessed are those who expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed.

39.   Let No one else define you. You are a person in your own right, entitled to your thoughts and feelings.

40.   Eventually, something will come back to bite you on the arse.

41.   Nothing is ever just “something”.

42.   There’s always a work-around.

43.   You must evolve with the world around you or be swallowed by it.

44.   Everything comes at a price.

45.   Get humble and be honest, at least with yourself.
46. Do not mistake complacency for contentment.