Lessons

I've been thinking a lot about the things that I'm going to teach Elijah as he grows up-- not everything, of course, because some things I believe need to be learned for oneself (for example, that the stove is hot). But there are certain things that I want to be sure that he knows, especially as a little one.

1. No matter how old a person is, remember to be polite. It doesn't matter if they're making you angry, if they're 'like a bajillion' or are just a baby, be polite. People will remember your words and your actions.

2. Take care of those who are smaller than you. If you're the littlest, then take care of the Neverbugs.

3. When you're old enough to have a girlfriend (because I'm going to assume you will at some point or another), treat her like a person. Then a princess, then a goddess. And then like a person again.

4. Never throw the first punch. There are better ways to solve your problems.

5. Remember to read equal parts Elfquest and Shakespeare.

6. Don't assume that a person is what they look like. I rarely am, and I'm your mommy.

7. Listen to Beethoven.

8. Listen to AC/DC, Metallica, Garth Brooks, Miracle of Sound, The King Singers and all the other music, too.

9. Don't deem something unpalatable until you've taken at least two bites. Anything less than that is an insult to the food.

10. If you're in someone else's home, and they cook for you, if you're not allergic-- you eat it. Do not insult the host or hostess.

11. Other people's homes and belongings are to be treated with respect. If you wouldn't do it in a church, don't do it in someone else's home (until invited).

12. If you play a prank, you run the risk of getting caught. Accept this.

13. Don't get caught.

14. Wherever we all came from, whatever we believe in, we're all sharing the same planet. Never ever forget, my dear one, that just because you don't agree with someone doesn't make what they believe in any less valid.

15. We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful who we pretend to be.

16. Clothing has no gender. Yes, dresses DO tend to look better on women, but that doesn't mean that someday when you understand social implication that you can't wear them.

17. If your Opa makes it long enough to tell you stories, listen.

18. No matter how many people you call 'Mom' or 'Dad' over the years, never forget the ones who mushed together your genetics or how much we love you.

19. Don't hate the color pink.

20. Don't be afraid to admit that you don't know an answer. That's how we learn.

21. Never apologize for being sick or being sad.

22. Love comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and pairings. Remember that no matter what's on the outside, underneath it is still love.

23. If you want to know why someone thinks the way they do, ask them. Most people would rather explain their point of view more clearly than have someone assume all the wrong things about it.

24. We love you.

25. The animal who's been working alongside you gets food and water first. You can wait ten minutes while you give your dog dishes of food and water.

26. Treat all living things with respect. This isn't to say that you shouldn't eat meat or pick flowers-- but do it with respect. If you decide to be a hunter someday, don't kill more than you need.

27. You can never read too much.

28. The vast majority of people in the world won't understand or agree with you. That's okay.

29. We're all mad here.

30. Family, whether blood or not, is the most priceless treasure there is. Remember that gold can tarnish and jewels can crack, but it can be cleaned up and fixed. Never give up on your family.