I've discovered through my Pinterest habit (it's totally under control, I promise) that there are lots of mothers out there that want to leave more than a 1/2 finished baby album behind for their children. I'm definitely one of those moms (1/2 finished baby album and all)!
I've come across other blogs that moms have written that have wonderfully heartfelt messages to their sons (and daughters). I wanted to create my own for X so that one day, I can print it out and include it in his baby (hopefully complete) album. Here is my list and even if you don't write your list via a blog, I encourage you to write it. It's terribly emotional, but forces you to REALLY look at your children for who they are today, who you see them as in the future and the person you hope the world will see them as. {Tissue warning}
My son, I want you to know...
#1 I will always LOVE you...no matter what. I might not like you at times, but you will always be loved fully and unconditionally by me. You are a giant piece of my heart walking around in the world!
#2 Tell the truth. The truth may hurt, but nothing hurts more than knowing someone wasn't worthy of the truth. Plus, I'll be madder if I ever find out you've lied (and the punishment is more harsh - I promise).
#3 Be true to yourself. Be who you are because who you are is amazing! It's scary to be yourself, truly yourself, but take that fear and turn it into strength and amaze the world!
#5 Rules are rules.* They are there to keep you from killing yourself (and me from killing you) and to keep order in the world. There are limits that can be pushed, but keep on the legal side of the limits.
#6 The world is your oyster. You are capable of anything! Seek adventure. Your spirit is bright and wild. Follow that, see the world and explore new and wonderful lands!
#7 We are all human. It's easy to judge people based on the way they look on the outside, but we all have lives within that we protect and keep private. You are a sensitive soul, use that to be kind and accepting of people.
#8 Share your heart. Be open and real with your emotions. You have an enormous heart and love like no other. All emotions are valid, so it's OK to be mad, angry, happy, sad and to cry - even if you are a "guy".
#9 Your body is a temple. Get your exercise, eat right, enjoy pushing yourself to limits you didn't think you could achieve. HOWEVER, remember: ink and holes are permanent, your privates are private, pull your pants up and replacing your teeth is expensive. Play smart!
#10 I'm NOT your friend. I'm your mom. It's my job to teach you right from wrong. To teach you to be respectful and use your manners. To punish you when you've broken the rules and to teach you there are consequences to your actions. But I do all of this out of love for you!
#11 Money doesn't solve problems, but it can help. Be responsible with your money. Learn to take care of your responsibilities in life first. Take care of your family and provide for them. Please...work to live, not live to work.
#12 Never keep a lady (or anyone for that matter) waiting. If you are on time, you're late! Respect the time of others and they will in turn respect yours.
#13 Keep your word. Integrity is, above all, everything. Do what you say and say what you do. An honorable man is nothing to be ashamed of and it will earn you far more respect than trying to have "swag".
#14 Get an education. It doesn't have to be a formal education, but learn and NEVER stop learning. Your potential is limitless if you seek knowledge (and use it wisely)!
#15 Say I'm sorry (and mean it when you are apologizing). It's not a sign of weakness to apologize, you are not any less of a man if you do. If anything, it will get you much farther than not.
#16 Know when to be selfish. Putting others first is a trait that is admirable, but so is knowing when you need to take care of you.
#17 Violence doesn't solve anything. Hitting is NEVER EVER EVER OK, especially women. But please defend yourself - don't be a punching bag for someone else. Don't be a bully. Stand up for the little guys.
#18 Be grateful. One day you may not have much, be grateful for what you DO have. Seeking happiness in "things" will only make you lonely in a house full of stuff.
#19 Listen to your intuition. It's more than "just a feeling". It's part of who you are, to keep you safe and out of harms way (whether harm be physical, mental or emotional).
#20 Be handy. Learn to use tools, what they're called and which is best for the job. It will be a skill and asset you'll never wish you didn't know. And don't ever complain when you are asked to help!
#21 Religion is personal. Choose what is right for you. No one can tell you what you believe is right or wrong. You also have every right to change the way you view your religion and faith whenever you should so choose.
#22 Treat women like princesses. Telling a woman they are beautiful everyday (even on their worst days) will take you farther than any gift ever will (although thoughtful gifts - purchased or homemade - can't hurt)!
#23 Laughter is healing. You are funny and witty! You can hold a crowd on a single word. Be proud of your ability to make others laugh - it's a talent few people have.
#24 A broken heart isn't the end. Someday someone will break your heart. It will feel like the world has stopped rotating and your walls are crashing in. It's temporary, I promise. Take the time you need to heal. When that is over, pick yourself up and solider on. There are greater loves to be had awaiting you!
#25 You'll ALWAYS have a place with me. I know that times can get hard and we need a safe place to go to work out life. No matter what hand life deals you, you'll always have a safe place to be. I'll listen without talking, I'll never judge and I'll be there to dry your tears and remind you how much you are loved.
Always,
Mom
*This is clearly a "do as I say, not as I do" item. Many of you know I'm NOT the best rule follower! :)