When I was growing up, boys were raised differently from girls. Men made a living, women took care of the home and children. My mother stressed to my sisters the importance of finding a successful man to “take good care of you”.
Being self-sufficient is the most important thing you can teach any child. Giving them the confidence to accomplish anything ahead of them without fear of failure is paramount. Failing at things means you are trying. Failing isn’t bad, not trying is and a maniacal drive to succeed at all costs will lead to unhappiness. The pursuit of any goal will have successes AND failures.
We raised our daughters to hopefully understand these principles. Never expect someone to take care of you. Learn to take care of yourself. Making a living from something you enjoy doing can be difficult to find but not impossible. I feel blessed and very proud when I see how my daughters have navigated the world.
I remember an instance when Lillian and Mary Clare were about 14 and 11. We had a foster child, Charlotte, staying with us. At dinner one night, she commented on how she couldn’t wait till she was 16, so she could have babies. Both Lillian and Mary Clare immediately told her “That’s crazy! You have to go to school and get a job before you can have a baby!” After explaining their comment to Charlotte, my wife and I just looked at each other and smiled.
I just re-read this post from my Dad. Lately I’ve been very thankful. Especially for my wonderful parents/roommates.
Also, I think I should try to reenact this photo.
