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I don’t think anybody needs a speech on what is right and what is wrong. Most people don’t want to be told how to live their lives either. Through the years, I’ve continually fought against everyone’s advice.

If I could go back with the knowledge I have now and with what I have experienced, things would be so very different. Even basic “listen to your parents” kind of advice — and I know that, yes, I should have listened to my parents more. Besides the typical teen screw-ups, which I think most of us are guilty of, it can get so much worse if you don’t listen or take advice from elders.

Over the years and through my struggles, I have learned that taking advice, suggestions, and guidance from others is very important. When you’re talking with people who have “been there, done that,” listen and really let it soak in. Obviously you have to be aware of the person giving the advice, but if it’s a trusted family member or friend, just listening could be one of the wisest things you’ll ever do.

Be kind, be patient, and live well.

These are the simple guidelines I try to live by. Whether you believe in karma or not, I believe that when you are kind, it will always come back to you in some way or somehow. Although, when I say be kind, I’m not just referring to kindness to other human beings. Pet a dog, plant a garden, pick up the trash that’s blowing down the street; anything really! The smallest kind gesture not only is a great thing to do but makes you feel so great too.

I must admit though, being patient is sometimes easier said than done, as I am sure many of you are already aware. If you can really find a way not to get frustrated when things aren’t going the way you want you’ll be that much better off in the long run.

For example, when the little old lady in front of you in line at the grocery store is writing a check for $11.42, take a deep breath and relax. We’ve all been there and it’s really not a big deal if you think about it. The universe will take you where you need to go. Or if you see the guy in traffic that is overly excited and you know is about to lose it – just remember to breathe. We all have to go through it, but the key is mastering how to go through it without losing your cool.

As for living, well, we could talk diet and exercise but that’s not exactly what I mean. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m all for diet and exercise, but what I’m talking about is continuously trying to be a better person for yourself and to others. We all know the saying “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” and I honestly couldn’t agree with it or try to live my life by it more than I do now.

So these are all the things I strive for in my life and all the things I can leave you with today. I hope my words can inspire you to live the life you were meant to live.

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Pete Giannini is the drummer for fast-growing female fronted rock band Chaser Eight. A few years back he was struggling with a terrible addiction, but through the love and support of his band mates and family he was able to overcome his problem. He is now living clean and sober while creatively contributing to Chaser Eight’s new EP due out at the end of September.

North Haven, Connecticut rock quintet Chaser Eight craft epic and moody rock that recalls the grandeur of David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, The Doors, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Killers, and even Lana Del Rey. The group boasts bluesy and richly expressive vocals, mesmerizingly textured guitar playing, and a dynamic and imaginative rhythm section. Their latest EP, Up and Up, is emotionally expansive, from the soulfully uplifting “Take Me Higher” to the gorgeously gloomy “Addict.”

Chaser Eight has opened for The London Souls and The Radiators, and has headlined sold-out shows in Connecticut and New York City. The quintet’s music has been played, and is in heavy rotation, on Connecticut radio stations 99.1 WPLR and Radio 104.1. Currently, the group is featured in the pitching catalog of an esteemed film and TV synch-licensing publishing house, APM Music. The band recently made its TV debut, performing two songs on WTNH's Connecticut Style Stage 8. In addition, *AUDRA* had the remarkable distinction of auditioning three songs to The Rolling Stones’ iconic former manager, Andrew Loog Oldham.

For more information, please visit chasereight.com

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. Those are great words to live by. It seems to me the more I meditate the more patience I seem to develop. Taking that deep breathe in situations where you feel that push of impatience is good, and remembering that you can actually do a mini meditation around that while you wait for that little old lady to write the check only to find out the store doesn’t take them and she has no other method of payment. I’d add having a good sense of humor as well.

    Thanks.

    Nick

  2. Pete, I was so pleased to see you use the word “elders” We have largely forgotten to respect them and to listen to their words of wisdom, as used to be done in the past – and still is in some cultures which we stupidly regard as “backward”

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