A Letter to my ((hopefully) Future) Child

I had compiled this letter earlier in our infertility journey.  I hope that I am able to give this to a child, OUR child in the future.  It's a list of things I would like our child to learn from us, and I thought it was worth sharing.

"I hope to teach you many things throughout your life.  While I know that we will teach you so many important things, I know that we will also learn so much from you.  I wanted to compile a list for if we conceive you and you're eventually here, and also for me if I need a gentle reminder from time to time.

I hope to teach you acceptance.  I hope to teach you that regardless if someone is different than you or they stray from the "normal" thing to do--You should always, always, always be kind.  Every person deserves kindness, respect, and the same rights as another person.

I hope to teach you to follow your dreams.  I hope you dance to the beat of your own drum, after all it's the best music there is.  There is not a dream of yours that is too big or too small.

I hope you're opinionated and strong in your beliefs.  I hope you try your best to understand the beliefs of the people around you, even if you don't agree. 

I hope you have a vivid imagination.  I hope you have a good childhood with little worry.  I hope you know how to play because you're never too old to sing at the park, play dress up, or answer a pretend phone.

I hope you learn to sing like your dad, but even if you end up singing like me, I'll listen to each and every song you sing.  P.S.  Don't be afraid to dance like Auntie Becca.

I hope you learn that everyone makes mistakes.  But getting back up, dusting yourself off and trying again is what will make you succeed.

I hope you learn your dad's humor.  He can always put a smile on my face.  He can tell a joke at just the right time, but he also knows when a hug will work best.

I hope to teach you respect.  Not only for yourself, but for those around you.  Respect for people, animals, and ideas is so important.  

I hope you learn to be the change you want to see in the world.  I hope you inspire the people around you.

I hope you learn to always leave someone's life better than when you came into it.  If someone allows you into their life, change it for the better.

I hope you learn it's okay to be unique.  You're so amazing the way you are, and it's okay to be different.  Each little difference is what makes you, You!

I hope you learn to stand up for yourself.  But also know that you don't need to attend every fight you're invited to.  Focus your energy on your passions and channel your heart in all of your decisions.

I hope to teach you to question things you don't understand.  I hope you learn to ask questions about anything and everything like your dad.  I will answer a million questions a day if it means that you will have a better understanding of the world around you.

I hope you find love.  And I promise to let you follow it wherever it leads you.  I hope you also give love wherever you go.  And always remember love is love is love.  It is less about who you love and all about how you love.  I hope you find a love like your dad and I have.  Find someone who loves you unconditionally.  Find someone who challenges you but is strong enough to respect your differences.

Life isn't about the destination, it's about the journey.  Take time for yourself.  Know that all of the little things-the people, the days, the moments are what make this journey worthwhile.

I hope to teach you compassion.  I hope you feel pain for those less fortunate than you.  I hope you always offer your help to those in need, whether it's helping your grandma with her groceries or giving a homeless man your last dollar. 

And always remember, you are loved. "