Thought of the Week: June 16, 2012

Daddy’s Dynamic Dozen x 2:

1.  Let it be known...I love you more than you’ll ever know.
2.  If on occasion I push or prod you, it’s because I think you’re each capable of achieving so much.
3.  When I ask you questions, it’s really because I care about you, your life, your goals and your friends.  Sorry if you think it’s “annoying.”
4.  Read.  A lot.  Your life will be influenced significantly by the books you read.
5.  Make new friends.  Your life will be influenced significantly by the people you meet.
6.  Ask yourself, “What would I do, if I knew it was impossible to fail?”
7.  Know the value of observing and listening.  You were given two eyes, and two ears, and only one mouth for a reason.
8.  Work hard, at school and at your job.  Remember, people are watching you.  And, making decisions about you.  Is that fair?  Don’t matter.  That’s how the game is played.
9.  Save your money.  Invest in yourself.
10.  Be kind, to yourself and others.
11.  Truth is your friend.
12.  Help your Mother.
13.  Take action.  If you want it…go for it.  If you’d like it, ask for it.
14.  Realize “rejection” and “no” are part of life.  Get over it.  Move on.
15.  I will always love YOU.  Although at times, I might not like your choices or behaviors.  But I know you’ll learn from your mistakes.  And choices.  That’s how you grow.  Mature.  And become even better and stronger than you are now.
16.  You each are remarkable in your own way.  Be nice to each other.  Avoid name-calling.  Never scare each other.  Accept that on occasion, family gets angry at family, but find a way to work it out.
17.  Never give another person, permission to influence your mood, attitude or outlook on life…those are your choices.  Your responsibility.
18.  Clean up after yourself.  Put your clothes away.  Make your bed.  Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink.  (It gets your Mom angry!)
19.  Think BIG.  Dream BIG.  Place no limits on your life.
20.  Find what makes YOU unique, special.  Be passionate.  Enjoy the adventure.
21.  Hug those who are important to you.  Tell them, “I love you!”
22.  Don’t gossip.  Spread rumors.  Or say negative things about other people.  It often backfires and returns to bite you on the tush.
23.  Don’t bake in the sun!  But do take great care of your body.  Exercise.  Eat well!  (Remember, “gum” is not a food group!)  Laugh.  Laugh some more!
24.  If any of the preceding is confusing, or causes you to wonder, “Why is my Dad so weird?”...simply go back, repeatedly, and re-read #1!

~ Jeff Blackman