To the Next Generation

**Dedicated to my 8month old nephew, Zo.

My darling,

much will be expected of you all with

good intentions,

but please fight to stay true to who you are.

Be at peace with yourself,

life is only what you make of it.

And yes, the grass is usually

greener on the other side

but don’t go wandering over there.

What you have around you is more than you

could ever ask for-

health,

two loving, dedicated parents,

and the means to become

whoever you want to be.

Take risks with your heart,

and let people in.

Some of them will surprise you

while some will hurt you,

but don’t you ever stop

believing in humanity.

Live through the struggles.

Be a confident leader

 but don’t be arrogant.

You won’t always have all of the answers,

so don’t be afraid to turn

to your family for guidance.

Sweetheart,

Don’t always let one

experience stop you from

trying again.

Sometimes things are just

meant to happen the way

they happen.

Have faith.

You will learn valuable lessons,

and you will unintentionally teach some.

Either way, always be a role model even

 when you think no one is looking.

Most importantly,

My baby boy,

always remember that you are a

creature of this universe,

and you have every right to be here.