Spoon-feeding you right up until the end.

One of my summer goals was to learn to bite my tongue. You can imagine how challenging this was since I like to share every thought that pops into my head. Teenagers happened and this goal got pushed to the top of the wish pile. I listened to many podcasts, read a few books and gathered insight from friends who are good at keeping their mouths shut. What was the most effective tool? Spending a week with my sister Natalie. With a nonverbal learning disability, she chooses her words carefully. She taught me that we can enjoy a puzzle or reading on the beach without chatting. She taught me the power of the thoughtful stare, and I am using it often these days. I could have saved a lot of time and energy this year by first focusing on the teacher who was right before me.

So many of my friends are sending their kids off to college and it is making me anxious over the limited time I have to force feed my words of wisdom.   I’m never quite sure if my sons listen to me, but I try to have faith that some things will sink in if I keep sharing them.  I loved the piece that the talented author Kelly Corrigan wrote in the NY Times on sending her daughter off to school, and it inspired me to jot down a few notes on the flight home from our vacation. I imagine I will blink before it’s my time next summer.

To my boys, I know I am limited in how much you absorb, so I am hoping eight points are enough.

1.     Find the people who make you laugh and share your time with them. 

2.     Share your thoughts- both the light and dark ones.  Often it can help your mindset if you get out of your own head talk to people.

3.     Share your joy.  If you love a song, a movie, a place or a book, tell others about it.  They might also find enjoyment from the items you share. 

4.     Share your struggles. If you screw something up, do not hide from it, talk about it.  The reality of the situation might not be as bad as you think. And if it truly is a horrible mistake, you can get help with your next steps.

5.     Share your wallet- friends will never forget your generosity. Give back to your community around you as well.  Little gift gestures can add up to make a big impact. 

6.     Share your dreams- you never know who you might inspire.  You might also touch someone who can help you reach your dreams. 

7.     Share your day with multiple interests- do not play one sport, read one book or listen to one song and make a judgment.  Try many activities and hobbies because even the crummy ones might teach you something.

8.     Share your heart- when you feel love for someone, tell them and show them often.  Your heart might hurt, but when it heals, it will beat with more strength. 

 We tell you we love you and care about you all the time, but we also tell you to change the toilet paper roll and put the dirty dishes directly into the dishwasher so hoping the good stuff rises to the top.

XOXO,

Mum