I saw the original version of this somewhere and thought it was excellent advice for my boys. I had to add a few and edit some, but for the most part, these are some things I hope that they know as they get older.
1. You will set the tone for the sexual relationship, so don’t take something away from her that you can’t give back. Also, on this topic, be safe. Condoms can save your life.
2. Play a sport. It will teach you how to win honorably, lose gracefully, respect authority, work with others, manage your time and stay out of trouble, and if you’re lucky, throw or catch.
3. Use careful aim when you pee. Somebody’s got to clean that up, you know.
4. Save money when you’re young because you’re going to need it some day.
5. Allow me to introduce you to the dishwasher, oven, washing machine, iron, vacuum, mop and broom. Now please go use them.
6. Pray and remember to always treat others as you would like to be treated. Religion is a personal thing and you can choose how and when to celebrate. Being thankful and thoughtful is an excellent start.
7. Don’t ever be a bully and don’t ever start a fight, but if some dumbass starts something, finish it. Defend yourself, and others if they need it.
8. Your knowledge and education is something that nobody can take away from you.
9. Treat women kindly. Forever is a long time to live alone and it’s even longer to live with somebody who hates your guts.
10. Take pride in your appearance.
11. Be strong and tender at the same time.
12. A woman can do everything that you can do. This includes her having a successful career and you changing diapers at 3 A.M. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.
13. “Yes ma’am” and “yes sir” will always go a long way.
14. The reason that they’re called “private parts” is because they’re private. Please do not scratch them in public, and for God’s sake, don’t text pictures of them to anyone… EVER.
15. Peer pressure is a scary thing. Resisting makes you a man. Succumbing makes you a coward. Be a good leader and others will follow.
16. Bringing someone flowers for no reason is always a good idea.
17. When you say you are sorry, mean it. There’s nothing worse than an empty apology.
18. Having a brother is a blessing. Whether you are the oldest or youngest, your role is an important one. He will be your best friend and biggest supporter. Sometimes being a brother is better than being a superhero! Don’t forget to call him when you are no longer living under the same roof.
19. Love your country. Be appreciative to those who serve to protect it.
20. Have decent knowledge of tools and weapons. Learn how to respect and use both.
21. Social media can be dangerous. Just because you think it, does not mean it needs to go out into the world for everyone to see. Once something is out there, it cannot be erased.
22. Do not text and drive. Do not drink and drive. Do not… well, basically, when you are driving, you should just be DRIVING! No distractions! There are many lives at stake when you are behind the wheel, including your own. Please take it seriously.
23. Always tell the truth. Not only will lying make no one trust you, you will trust no one. Honesty is always the best policy.
24. Please choose your spouse wisely, the least of the reasons is that she will be the gatekeeper for me spending time with you and my grandchildren.
25. Remember to call your parents because we might be missing you.
Now, if those aren’t some pearls of wisdom that need to go in the blog book, I don’t know what is!