I have always viewed advice (and more importantly, the act of giving personal advice) as an individual’s personal and verbal recollection of an event in their life. These history lessons are often presented when the individual feels that their personal experience is similar to one that is currently facing another person. The story teller feels the need to bestow this empirical wisdom with the hope that it may shed light on an otherwise dark situation.

It’s important to remember that people often seek advice for a multitude of reasons. Sharing experiences with someone who can empathize is a comforting human element. Some types of advice are absolutely crucial (i.g. legal, financial). After all, we can’t live our life without various forms of help along the way. What about advice on personal decisions? Where do I go to school? What do I want to do with my life? Who do I want to be with for the rest of my life? How relevant is your advice to another person with regards to their future?

I cannot figure out what possesses a person to truly believe that one size fits all. How does one come to the conclusion that, “because it worked for me, it can and will work for you”? I understand the unwritten duty of family and friends with regards to the well-being of a loved one. In the end, however, you make your own decisions. There is virtually no way to make someone do anything…even with a gun to their head.

I suppose it’s important to mention that I choose to hate forms of advice that come regardless of request. You should certainly try to help if someone is coming to you for guidance on a personal problem. I would only request that you preface the advice with a cautionary statement about how it might not work exactly as it did for you. I take issue when someone chooses to impose their thoughts and wisdom. How can you “care” for someone if you would rather get something off your chest than allow them to live their own life? I have yet to meet someone with prophetic insight or pure omniscience. I would imagine that kind of person can give any advice her or she desires. You and I cannot see the future. I dare say that your advice is one of many possible options, but it is not THE option. Those who cannot grasp that concept are destined for a very frustrating life. There are times that you have to let the person get burned to know that the stove is hot.

When it comes to giving advice on a person’s future, your guess is as good as mine. You are merely speculating if you attempt to direct a person based on precedents that shaped your life. We are all free to listen to ourselves speak. Some people love it more than others, but it’s our right. I just ask that you remember one thing: You do not truly know what you are talking about. It’s impossible.

(My apologies to any prophets who actually do know what they are talking about because THEY CAN SEE THE FUTURE)

I digress. Now bring the storm…