There is so much I’ve tried to teach you

in these years that you have grown,

and so much more I cannot show you

that you will learn all on your own.

It’s been said that life’s a dance

that you learn more day by day...

so I want to share some of the steps

that I’ve picked up along the way...

The first piece of advice I’ll give you

is the most important thing I’ve learned;

you shouldn’t take things too seriously

as each page of your life is turned.

Learn to laugh at yourself,

and enjoy the laughter of your friends.

Find humor in things that offend you

to ensure that laughter never ends.

Do not believe in first impressions,

for things aren’t always as they seem.

Sometimes the very smallest player

is the best one on the team.

Always do what you feel is right;

to your own self, you must be true.

Remember you have to live with tomorrow

whatever today, you choose to do.

Always be ready and willing

to lend a hand where help is needed.

Try to remember to treat other people

as you, yourself, would like to be treated.

Continue to further your education

although life’s lessons never cease...

Knowledge provides independence.

Independence will provide you with peace.

Always plan a route to your destination,

but don’t be afraid to go off course.

Sometimes life’s surprises are gradual;

sometimes they come with powerful force.

Learn to humbly accept life’s changes

and know that nothing stays the same.

Accept responsibility for your actions,

and don’t be reluctant to take the blame.

Do your best not to criticize others;

we all have failings and faults that occur

because no one has been born to perfection,

though you’ll meet those who think they were.

And you are never too old for manners,

so always remember to include

the "pleases" and the "thank yous"

that help express your gratitude.

Have understanding for those less fortunate;

find ways to help and do your part.

Stay focused on the compassion

that you’ll find deep within your heart.

Don’t get so busy and hurried

that, with little things, you’re disenchanted.

Take time to count your blessings,

and do not take them all for granted.

Cherish and respect your elders.

Listen to stories from where they came

and make them proud that you are one

who carries their family name

And stay close to your family;

don’t let time or distance come between

responsibilities create separations

that very seldom are foreseen.

Thank veterans and be proud of your country.

They are the reason you live unafraid.

The freedoms and rights that you possess

are from the sacrifices they made.

Give 100% of your efforts,

to whatever task you do each day.

Working hard will get you ahead...

but still make time to rest and play.

Be careful what you choose to do

in the name of having fun.

Don’t try things that cloud your judgement

and make you regret the things you’ve done.

Don’t dwell on mistakes made yesterday

Learn from each error and blunder.

If you are caught in the middle of a storm,

next time...take note of the thunder.

Don’t become obsessed with money.

It’s not the secret to "living well."

Do not measure wealth by what you have

but by what you have, and would not sell.

Try not to grow up too fast;

learn to cherish each childhood year,

for it seems before you know it...

they somehow silently disappear.

I hope you’ll someday benefit

from the guidance these words may bring,

but you’ll know you have someone in your life

who loves you more than anything!