What a great book! I read this book after a friend of mine recommended it as a book all moms should read. It is true, all mothers should read this book. It is heartbreaking. It brings me back to being a teenager when a string of kids that were around my age were dying. How in the world would I be able to deal with it? (It is my prayer every day: that God understands I am not strong enough, so please don't out me through that). Now, looking back, I think of their mothers. How did they do it? It is inconceivable to me. They seemed like they were handling it so well, but truth be told, they were probably the opposite. Here are five things I want my kids to know:
1. Do not let anyone make you feel like you are not good enough: a lot of kids will try and make you feel a lot of things. Ugly, unwanted, lonely, unworthy. You are none of these things. Never allow someone's words or actions define you. You are unlike anything that has ever walked this Earth. You are the most precious gift God has ever given me, and do not let ANYONE take that away from you, not even for a second.
2. I will always be there: sometimes you will feel like you want another mother, and that hurts me, but it's okay. We all go through that. No matter what, under any circumstance, I will be there. No questions asked, I will be there. But, children, expect a lecture and consequences if necessary. Expect it!!!!
3. When you look at someone, see them through their family's eyes: It is very easy to judge someone by just looking at them. We have all been the recipient of someone's judgment, and it does not feel good. When you feel like you are judging someone, think of them through their family's lens. That is someone's daughter/son/cousin/uncle/aunt, etc. They love that person. We all have something redeeming about us, and we must look for that quality in all the people we meet. Think first, and be slow to judgement. Turtle's pace, my loves!
4. For my son: I will always love you more than anything else in the world. No one can love you like I do. Son, when you meet a woman you want to be your wife (waaaah-that's me crying about that thought), here are some things to remember: do some laundry, wash some dishes, pick up your damn underwear after you take a shower, and always treat your lady better than me. Yes, I said BETTER than you treat your mom. Give her everything she wants. Happy wife is a happy life. She'll love you so much more than you can imagine. If she doesn't, then there's always my wrath. I think she'll choose your way. :)
5. For my daughter: I will always love you more than anything else in the world. No one can love you like I do. For my girl: value yourself above all others. Treat your body sacredly, and love yourself first. There will come a time when all you will do will be for others, that time is called motherhood. Until then, enjoy life, do not get tethered down to a relationship when you are very, very young. Be kind to others, and be careful of the words you speak. They hold a great deal of power, and can leave scars that run deep. Don't be a mean girl! You are smart, you are kind, you are special. Read The Help by Kathryn Stockett when you are 13. Then read, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee when you are 16.
For both of you: Do great things in the world.
Love, Your Mom
I love this and I agree with your words of wisdom for your children, Know that your dad and I have always loved and honored you and your sister and brother more than life itself! I love the choice of mates that you have made and the grandchildren that you have brought to us. You are all a gift from God, and always remember that the only thing greater than you is the great creater, and I thank God every day for the opportunity to be a mom and grandma, and especially for the man that he sent to me, who I love honor and respect and am thankful for the love he has given me, and the children that we have together :) ( Things I want you to know my beautiful daughter!)
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