A Note to the Next Generation-Wise Words from Bob Nicols

Life moves fast. Before you know it, the things that feel big today will fade into distant memories. But the truths—the ones that matter—stick. They grow clearer as time goes on. If you ever need a reminder, keep this close. I’m sure I’ve missed some things, but this is a pretty good start.

God is love.
Not judgment, fear, or shame. Just love. God is truth, kindness, forgiveness, and grace. Nothing more, nothing less. That spirit lives in you. So when you listen to it, when you let it guide your choices, you’ll know what’s right. And that doesn’t mean you won’t mess up—we all do—but if you keep love and truth as your compass, you’ll live a life you’re proud of.

The Golden Rule still kicks ass.
Treat others how you want to be treated. Simple, powerful, and it makes everything better—your relationships, your peace of mind, and your experience of life.

Hell isn’t some place you go—it’s what you create.
You don’t have to die to experience hell. Mistreat others, lie, hate, or act selfishly—and you’ll feel it. You’ll live it. Choose love and integrity instead. It’s that simple.

Every day is new.
And that right there? That’s one of the biggest gifts life gives you. Every single morning you wake up, you have another chance. Another chance to do better, love more, forgive, and course correct. Yesterday does not have to define you.

Respect your parents.
Even when it’s hard. Even when you don’t understand them. They’ve sacrificed more than you can imagine, and most of what they do—whether or not they say it well—comes from love. When you lead with grace, you rise above. That’s strength.

Never, ever drink and drive.
Doesn’t matter who else does it or how “fine” they seem. Never get behind the wheel buzzed, high, or drunk. If my words echo in your head when it counts, then I’ve done my job. I’ll keep saying it if it means saving your life—or someone else’s.

Work harder than those around you.
Not to compete, but because your work reflects your character. How you show up matters. And here’s a little secret: the more people you positively impact, the more value you bring to the world—and yes, the more you’ll earn, in every way.

Karma is real.
Do good, and good finds you. Sometimes in strange, quiet ways. But it always circles back.

Stay young.
Your spirit doesn’t have to age just because your body does. Stay curious. Stay playful. Stay adventurous. It’s how you’ll keep life feeling fresh and full.

Take care of your body.
It’s your home. It carries your spirit. You may feel invincible now, but trust me—your habits will show up later. And yes, that includes your teeth.

Respect your stuff.
If you like having nice things, take care of them. Don’t get caught in the cycle of replacing what you didn’t maintain. It’s expensive and exhausting.

Credit cards are sneaky little traps.
They make it feel like you’re getting something for free. You’re not. You’re borrowing from your future. And interest charges? Yeah… those suck.

Follow your dreams.
Not your parents’. Not your friends’. Not society’s. Yours. Don’t apologize for what lights you up. You don’t need approval. Just passion and direction.

Be kind.
Hold doors. Say thank you. Bless people when they sneeze. Smile at strangers. Help whenever you can. Make it your mission to leave people better than you found them.

Knowledge is power.
The more you learn, the more valuable you become—to others and to yourself. Learn from books, from people, from life. Soak it in.

Learn to cook.
It’s therapy. It’s creative. And yeah— it’s a great way to impress someone you’re interested in!

Do everything with passion.
If you can’t find the passion, it probably isn’t your path. Keep looking.

Music is food for the soul.
Keep your ears open. Be curious. Listen to what moves you. Let it be yours—whether anyone else gets it or not.

And remember this above all:
Your parents are always there for you. Their love doesn’t expire—not even when they’re gone. You’ll hear them in your heart, see them in your reflection, feel them in your spirit. That connection? It’s forever. Corny? Maybe. But true? Absolutely.

—Bobby