As I sat and watched my daughters play at a playground this afternoon, singing at the top of their lungs, uninhibited by social pressures that they may learn all too soon, I thought about how I want them to grow up, and the things that I hope they will learn. Sadly, I have no idea how to instill some of these things in them, but I can say with all honesty that there are several things I hope they gain from me.
1. It is important to learn to take care of yourself. Don't wait for a prince charming to come. You can be the hero of your own story.
2. It is not selfish to think of yourself, your dreams, wants, desires, and even preferences.
3. Being pretty is fine and good, but not really important.
4. It is fine, good, and important for you to be smart, regardless of if you are a boy or a girl.
5. Having fun is not selfish. It is important for both mental and physical health.
6. Just because other people do things one way, does not mean you have to. It is okay to be different. Not just okay, but essential. The reason the world works is because of differences.
7. Have courage. Be brave. Try hard. Don't be afraid to fail. Don't be afraid to take chances.
8. Don't change for someone else. If someone expects you to change to please them, they are not worth it.
9. Don't hide your talents. Don't hide your accomplishments. Don't pretend to be less than you are to make others feel more comfortable.
10. Don't keep secrets from those you love. If they truly love you back, they will not be put off by your secrets.
11. Don't forget how much your mother loves you. No matter what you do or who you are, your mother loves you. She may be disappointed in your actions, or try and guide you to better choices in life, but no matter what, she loves you.
12. Learn to be happy with yourself. You don't need to be in a relationship, have a particular type of job, house, car, or any other thing to make yourself happy. The fact that you are you, that is happiness enough. Anything else is just icing on an already fabulous cake.
13. Learn to recognize happiness and goodness.
14. Don't let others blame you for their mistakes. You cannot cause or force a person to behave badly, no matter what they may say or think.
15. Learn to respect yourself. If you truly respect yourself, you will not let others disrespect you. Don't lower your expectations. You deserve the best, nothing less.
The world needs more strong, brave, amazing women. I hope to make sure these strong, brave, amazing girls grow into the strong, amazing, brave women they deserve to be.
1 comment:
Number 4 is so, so true. #3 is good, but all should be reminded to do their best to look as presentable as possible. Never forget #11, and for some father fits as well as mother.
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