Hello my awesome sons, I hope this letter finds you well
I’ve learned through my long life that living well takes is a continuous learning process, and some of my most valuable lessons come from my Dad. We lived in Ireland when I was young, so we called him “The Da”. Here are a few things he taught me.
- Life’s Not Fair, But That’s Okay
- Listen up: Life’s gonna throw curveballs, and sometimes, you’ll strike out. But remember, even when life gives you lemons instead of that ice cream sundae you were hoping for, you’ve got options. You can sulk, or you can learn to make something great out of it. Lemonade’s good, but lemon pie? Now we’re talking.
- Failing is Just Roughhousing with Success
- Here’s the deal: Don’t fear failure, son. It’s like wrestling with your brother; sometimes you’re on top, sometimes you’re not. But each tussle teaches you how to get better, stronger. So when you fail, hug it out with life and get back in the ring.
- Kindness is Your Secret Weapon
- Remember this: Being kind might not get you a superhero cape, but it’s the real deal. It’s like having an invisible shield that not only protects you but also makes the world a bit brighter. And trust me, kindness has a way of circling back when you least expect it.
- Your Reputation is Your Shadow
- Think about this: What you do when you think nobody’s watching? That’s the real you. So, act like your actions might just be on the front page of the “Family Times.” Make sure it’s something you’d be proud to read.
- Master One Killer Dish
- Here’s a pro tip: Learn to cook one amazing meal. It’s not just about not starving; it’s about charm, comfort, and sometimes, just filling the belly. A guy who can whip up a storm in the kitchen? That’s like having a superpower for your stomach.
- Listen Up to Stand Out
- This is key: Most folks are just waiting for their turn to talk. You? Listen. Really listen. It’s like being a spy in a world full of loudspeakers. You’ll learn stuff others miss, and people will love you for actually hearing them.
- Money’s Not the Goal, But Know How to Play the Game
- And this is important: Money can’t buy you the good stuff like love or happiness, but knowing how to handle it? That’s freedom. Learn about money so you can live life on your terms, not chasing after dollar bills but chasing after what makes you truly happy.
There you have it, my boy. These aren’t just words; they’re your map through life’s jungle. Keep ’em close, laugh often, and remember, no matter where you go or what you do, you’ve got a dad who believes in you. Now, go out there and make some waves, but don’t forget to come back and tell me all about it.
And remember I love you with all my heart.
Kevin B Leigh — the Bard Dad
