Dear Sons, (Letter #32)
I jotted something down a few years back:
"You can live your life one of two ways - as if nothing is a miracle or as if everything is a miracle."
Of course, I choose the latter. Some people may think it's unrealistic to look at the world through rose-colored glasses, never getting a true look at reality. It doesn't mean I ignore reality, I just focus more on the positive. I've learned over the years how important a good attitude is. It's everything. If you believe you're going to fail, you probably will.
I hope that as you grow, you'll learn and understand what I mean. Trying to talk to teenagers about having a good attitude is often fruitless. Parents' opinions and advice carry as much weight as the whiny, blabbering teacher in the Charlie Brown cartoons - largely ignored and incoherent.
But as you head out into the world, you'll find that a good attitude will serve you well in so many ways. People will listen more. They'll want to be your friend. They'll enjoy your influence. It will open doors. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for all of you and where you'll go. And wherever you go, remember that attitude is everything.
Love,
Mom
