X is for eXtraordinary

It is an extraordinary experience to grow up in a family of eight children.  I am fourth of eight; there is a span of  sixteen years between the eldest and youngest.  In the chaos of all those people, we learned many life skills.  Here is a list of some of my lessons from my childhood.

1. I am not the center of the universe
2. He who hesitates misses out on a lot of things
3. Being a part of a family means there are many duties assigned
4. I had to make my own way in the world
5. I learned how to stand up for me
6. My parents could not and would not bail me out of a mess I made
7. I learned how to fight
8. The world will not always agree with me
9. Making mistakes is a part of life
10. Family is important
11. It is my responsibility to entertain me
12. Anything I want, I can earn
13. Education is essential
14. It is not good to be on Mom's "list"
15. Thanks God for all your blessings