Five Things I Want to Teach Jack.

I was on the phone with my mom yesterday, talking about the horrific behavior that is currently sweeping the headlines. I said, What a terrifying time to be raising a child. 

But also, what an important time to be raising a child.

Being a parent is weird, because at the end of it all, you may have made a kid and raised a kid, but they’re their own human. They’re going to be who they are. Which is what you want! But for a few years, you do get a big say in the things they learn. Here’s a few of mine I’ve been thinking about lately: 

That everyone deserves to be treated with respect. Your boss? They deserve respect. The crappy waitress who has forgotten your refill three times now? Also deserves respect. The girl who turned you down and doesn’t want to go on a date with you? Respect. It is very, very easy to treat people with respect. It’s also very, very important. 

To not be afraid of people who are different than you. Different is not bad. Plain and simple.  

To always be rooted in love. You’re going to make mistakes. You’re going to mess up a lot. But if you strive to always be rooted in love, acting out of love, doing everything from a place of love, you’ll do a pretty good job. 

If something excites you, it’s important. Don’t ignore the things that make you feel more in love with life. 

That only you can decide what to believe. I can teach you right from wrong. I can teach you why things are wrong. I can tell you all about what I believe. But only you can decide what to believe for yourself. And it’s best that way, because if you only believe something because someone else told you to, it’s not truly a belief. Your beliefs are incredibly important, and you’re the only one who can truly believe them. 

What are some life lessons you think are important to pass on?