A Letter to My Sons

Dear Boys,
When you read this, I hope that I have already taught you many of these things, but since I am having so much fun playing with you, holding you and taking care of you when you don't feel well, I just want to make sure you have some record of some of the traits that are so important to live a meaningful life in case I don't get around to telling you.

10. Know Your History
George Santayana said that those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it. Learn from your mistakes. Learn from others' mistakes. Do not consider yourself immune to consequences that have happened over and over again. Learn what works and what doesn't, but don't be afraid to pave your own path.

9. Take Photos
You may not always have your camera or phone available to actually strike a photo, but never underestimate the value of a mental picture. Live in the moment. Cherish time spent with friends and family.

8. Be Thankful
Do not take anything you have for granted. As quickly as it was given to you, it can be taken away. If you are truly grateful for everything you have, then you will never desire anything that you don't have.

7. Remember Who You Are and Who You Represent
Wherever you go you are sending a message. You can choose to spread love, kindness, joy, laughter and respect--or you can be a jerk. Remember what you were taught by those around you and those that love you. Actions speak louder than words.

6. Work Hard
You are entitled to nothing. If you want a better life, you have to work for it. Period. Number 7 will be much easier to do when you can look at your life and say that you have worked for everything you have.

5. Take Care of Yourself
While it's important to love and take care of others, do so in moderation. You are no good to anyone if you never take time for yourself. Relax. Take time to learn and reflect on your relationship with Christ.

4. Laugh at Yourself
Remain humble in all things. When you make a mistake, shake it off and learn from it (see #10) and know that you are human. Living too seriously can be just as damaging as living too carelessly. Find a place in the middle and strive for perfection, but give yourself a break when you fall short.

3. Find a Woman to Love and Never Let Her Go
Got a girl? Good. Love her? Great. Now tell her and show her that EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Not just on her birthday or Christmas or that stupid day in mid-February. Every day. Support her and lead her. Let her cry on your shoulder and feel free to cry on hers. Don't let her run away from you no matter what. Do whatever you can to make her feel secure in your relationship and both of your lives will be incredible and your children will thank you for it.

2. Love One Another
I mean this in a broad sense and more specific one. Yes, you should love everyone you come in contact with. This will be much harder than it sounds. People will hurt you, put you down and do things that you didn't think were even possible, let alone humane. The best practice for that is for the two of you to love one another. Yeah, you're gonna fight over toys, TV shows, girls, friends and so much more. Learn to love one another through all of that and loving others will almost come naturally for you.

1. Love God
Everything else will fall into place if you follow this one principle. When you love God, it transforms you. It changes everything that you want to do and makes you do what you need to do.
I love you both so much and want only the best for you. I will love you no matter what.

Love,
Momma
*****


What tips/values would you like to share with your child(ren)?