Letters from Daddy 2/22/12

{Letters from Daddy are a series of letters from expectant father to son, on what it means to be a man.}

Dear Chili,

As I anxiously await your arrival, my mind is filled with past memories, moments, and choices that have shaped my life significantly.  Two concepts spring to mind; understanding them will help you as you mature, as you face the many decisions that will determine who you are.  First, know that once a decision is made, it cannot be unmade without consequence.  Do not fear this fact of life; embrace it.  For good or ill, any choice you make will invariably affect your future decisions.  If is for this reason you cannot shrink away from your mistakes, nor sit idle when things go right.  You are human, and mistakes and successes will happen.  How you learn and adapt from the lessons your choices teach you will be pivotal on your journey towards manhood.  More simply put: As you make your choices, understand that they make you in turn.

The second idea I hope to teach you is very difficult to grasp without direct experience, but is still worth contemplating.  Whatever adventures or fortunes you may seek, you will encounter other travelers along the way.  Many will seek to confuse you or slow your progress; some will want to help you succeed; a precious few will be life-long friends.  When choosing your companions, know that character is defined through actions, not words.  While it is always important to listen to people, pay more attention to their actions.  The closer their words are to their deeds, the more reliable and loyal they are apt to be.  Trust is to be earned, not given freely.  In any case, my son, remember: There’s always a catch.  Life’s a catch, and I suggest you catch it while you can.  I love you, son.

Daddy