Day 21: What three lessons do you want your children to learn from you

To start, I would like to issue a small disclaimer.

I have a hard time trying to think of what I would teach my children seeing as I have no intention of ever having children due to a medical issue and a lack of patience with toddlers. These are the things I’m going to strive to teach my nephew every time I see him.

Happiness
Happiness should be a given but too many people get too caught up in the things that suck the life out of you; work, money, life, etc. Are you really happy? Do you even know? Sometimes it’s the little things in life that need to be the alarm reminding you of what’s truly making you smile. A family member, a hobby or even thunderstorm can transport you to the land of bliss. I’m stressed because I’m a student and navigating university is overwhelming but at least I’m happy.

Nerdy is better than bully
Who cares if it isn’t “cool” to read comics, play cards or read books? Never down anyone and never let anyone down you for enjoying the more nerdy side of life. I’ve known too many people, myself included, that are looked at strange or made fun of for liking things that are considered geeky or stupid. I love literature, history and Doctor Who and I’m not afraid to show it off.

Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, August 2014.

Seeing beauty in the ordinary
Beauty is around us at all times and it takes many different forms. It’s not necessarily a Victoria Secret model or a 400-year-old painting hanging on a museum wall. Ordinary acts of kindness are beautiful. One of the most amazing and beautiful things I’ve done is volunteering with Habitat for Humanity in Morningside, Detroit and getting to see a community come together to clear abandoned lots and build homes. I’ve been many places and still am floored by the beauty of a forest, monument or lake.