You are brave. You are strong.

You will one day hold the heart of another. Be tender.

Always keep your lust for life. Continue to find excitement wherever you go.

Be a leader. Don’t be afraid to forge your own path.

If it dulls your joy, it’s not for you.

Learn, learn, learn. Take the time to seek an education.

Never give up on yourself or on your dreams.

Love your sister. Keep her safe. Look out for her until a spouse comes along and can do it better.

Be kind. No one likes a bully.

Stand up for yourself.

Try everything once. Then don’t do the bad things again.

Grow. Apologize. Move on.

Find ways to communicate your feelings. Don’t shrink them just because you’re a boy.

If you’re struggling, please tell me or your Dad. We don’t want to see you suffer if we can help.

Work hard. Get dirty. Pay your bills.

Read the rest of this piece over on Knoxville Moms.