The idea of having 2 teenage daughters terrifies me. From self-esteem issues to boy problems - I am already trying to prepare myself for those challenging years. Having gone through them myself, I know what they are in store for....except our world is a bit different these days. Satan attacks young women from all angles - in print (what 'beautiful' looks like) on tv (how girls are protrayed acting) and especially on the internet. We, as parents, have our work cut out for us.
What I do know is that right now is when we have to be laying the groundwork for their foundation. I want them to be strong, independent, not afraid to stand up for their beliefs, to support the weak and to show love to others the way God loves us. I believe the foundation they need later in life comes from a great belief and understanding of God's love for us - what He has done for us and why. I came across this blog post this morning and feel it represents exactly what I want my daughters to know. She said it better than I could, so please read along:
http://chummom.com/15-things-i-want-my-daughters-to-know/
I’m becoming increasingly aware of the responsibility I have to teach my girls well, to make sure they are equipped to handle life gracefully. So I’ve been thinking of the life lessons I want to make sure I’m reinforcing. This is my list so far.
1. You are loved, deeply loved. Loved by God, our family, and many in our community. And you are loved simply because you are you.
2. God is so good and his very essence is Love. If anyone tries to present God as anything different than this, guard your heart, sweet girls.
3. Loving others will bring richness to your life. Learn to love well, even when loving is difficult.
4. Learn to be grateful for both little and big blessings. It can be hard to muster up thankfulness at times, but well worth it. You’ll find true joy in this learned contentment.
5. Making the right decisions isn’t always easy or popular, but living with integrity is priceless and worth far more than being popular or well-liked.
6. Look out for the “little guy”- those on the edges of society. They are often forgotten and could use a hand or hug- anything but a head turned away or judgement.
7. Relationships are important. They make life sweeter. Make time for relationships. You’ll never regret strong, healthy relationships.
8. You are beautiful. Stunning. But your truest beauty comes from the inside, radiating outward, not from the color of your hair, waistline, or skin tone.
9. It may seem counter-intuitive, but giving generously will make you richer. Not usually richer in material things, but richer in love, compassion, and thankfulness. Giving is a balm to the soul. Make giving a priority, whether you are dirt poor or Warren Buffet-wealthy.
10. Don’t act like anyone else but you to attract a boy. Or a friend. Or anyone else, for that matter. So don’t settle for someone who doesn’t appreciate you.
11. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve something. You can do anything you set your mind to with enough work and courage.
12. Make taking care of yourself- mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally- a priority. You will thank yourself for this in the future.
13. Take risks. (As your mom, I must add that I’m not speaking of risks of the foolish or illegal sort.) The best things in life often come from those times when you take a risk.
14. Be passionate- passionate about your beliefs, your interests, your studies, your relationships. Complacency is the death of the spirit.
15.Have fun. To the best of your ability and circumstances, have a blast living
