Bright Side (Bright Side, #1)

by Kim Holden

Fancy hides a lot, while simple unapologetically puts it out there for everyone to see.

Discovering something new is like magic. Music is out there to be heard, and I am of the opinion that as many people as possible should hear it. All of it. Because music is powerful. It connects people.

I wouldn't take back that hour for all the coffee in Columbia." "I think the phrase is 'for all the tea in China.'" I shake my head. "I hate tea."

I know it's weird, but I like to think of God as my homeboy. I'm not religious; I just talk to him a lot. I ask for a lot of favors. Sometimes things go my way, sometimes they don't. That's life. You just have to make the most of it.

And considering laughter is like oxygen to me, I really needed it. I medicate with it. I found two people who make me laugh, like tears-in-my-eyes, almost-wet-my-pants laugh. Those are the kind of people I like to be around. And now I have two. Lucky me.

"Anyway, the office staff said he has behavioral issues and the after-school program alluded to it, but he was an angel for me. I think so many people treat special needs kids so different from all of the other kids that sometimes it makes them act out. They're kids, all they really want is attention and kindness, you know? That's what every kid wants."

usual, she's completely wrapped up in her book. The entire building could crumble around her, and I doubt she would notice. I admire intense concentration like that. Reading is an escape from the outside world. Everyone needs a little of that to keep their sanity.

He was full of flaws. But, he was the most human of them all, you know? People are fucked up, so he was believable to me.

"I'm not saying you shouldn't pursue dreams and goals. Just don't forsake the present for the unknowns of the future. A lot of happiness is bypassed, overlooked, postponed to a time years from now that may never come. Don't bide your time and miss out on this moment for a tomorrow with no guarantee."

I usually try to avoid negative talk because it perpetuates negative thoughts and worse—negative action. It's like the catalyst for misery. A downward spiral ensues.

"Remember how we talked about me coming home when it gets to be too much?" "Of course, yes." "I think it's almost time."

life isn't easy for anyone. We all have to fight to make the most of the life we're given.

Be spontaneous. Life has too many rules and restrictions and schedules. Change your plans to make room for fun.

Don't judge each other. We all have our own shit. Keep your eyes on yours and your nose out of everyone else's unless you're invited in. And when you get the invitation, help, don't judge.

Take time to watch the sunset every once in a while. Bonus points if you do it with someone you care about.

Just when you think you know someone, they change. Or you change. Or maybe you both change. And that changes everything.

"Through all of this, you taught me that it's okay not only to depend on another person, but it's okay to let them carry the burden with you, even for you.

making the best of any situation, good or bad. It sounds easy, but in any situation short of nirvana, it's difficult.

Katie didn't just look on the bright side…she lived there. He was right. And that made her the bravest person I've ever known. You are brave…