The Wisdom Project

Sasha, age 20

What are the top 1-3 things you would like to pass on to others? How did you learn this?

1. Never solely focus on one passion. Always have different options in your life.  Things do not always go as planned.  Do not just focus on one thing; try different things and you may find that you like them a lot. I had visions for myself, but it was such a tunnel vision. Then I look back on it and realize I did not enjoy things.  I put so much effort into things I was not enjoying. I did not feel I could change my mind about things. An example is a hobby or educational path.
2. Take time to enjoy the moment. We are always so focused on the future that we do not always enjoy the small things that can make your day. When I get the perfect waffle or cup of coffee, you know your day is going to be superb. Try to find a positive thing in every day. I was going through things and life so fast and only focusing on the big events. It made my life dreary. I was not taking time to calm myself down or to center myself.  When the world is coming down on you, you can notice something small that changes your whole mood like a flower or a cute animal or a baby smiling.
3. Balance your experience of life. Do not take life too seriously. If you do, you are not really living. We are here for a long time so it might as well be a good time. And take life seriously enough to propel yourself forward. Through being a teenager, I realized to be happy and content, you need to laugh at least once a day.  Thinking of my future, I feel motivated to take that class or go to that job. You want to better your world. You must better yourself to live the life that you want.

You have seen a lot of significant events and changes over the course of your life. What wisdom can you share from your observations and experiences of the world in your lifetime so far?

We are very divided which is heartbreaking. We are living the same lives and we are divided by things we cannot control. I want us to be more educated. Not just what the schools teach but social justice that is important to a lot of people. Many people do not care to learn this. I wish we could focus more on other people and their problems; be more aware of what people go through because of their gender, race etc. What gives some people the authority; the right to think they are better than others? Let us get educated kids!

What obstacles and disappointments have you faced that you were able to put into perspective, turn into a positive, and/or contribute to in a way that made things better? What did you learn from these experiences that you can share with those who did not have those same experiences?

Being adopted (from Russia at age of 5). It impacted how I grew up and view the world. I had to learn a new language, new culture, was behind academically. It was confidence shattering. It has however made me more in tune with other people’s struggles. It makes me realize how fortunate I am as well.  I have opportunities that others do not have as a result.  Being part of a diverse family helped me understand others and empathize with their challenges too.

I would also say the year 2020 is an obstacle in many ways. But we will grow closer as a result.