A Letter to My Boys

Dear Pride and Joy,

While I'm not sure at what point you may come across this letter, I hope I've conveyed the contents over the years.  I also hope to have provided a good example for you to follow.  You mean the world to me, and I want you to have the same foundation I was privileged enough to have thanks to Mimi and Papaw's guidance.

1. Always say, "Thank you", "Please", and "Ma'am/Sir".  Manners convey a solid sense of 'home training', and if used well, you will be thought of as someone who is well-bred, well-behaved, and a good person to be around.
2. Learn how to set a table, use your napkin, and learn it until it's second-nature.  You will always feel comfortable at meals with family, friends, co-workers, and upper management.  You never know who you'll be seated next to...you don't want to have to worry about the table manners while you're trying to figure out what to say next to those around you if you're nervous.
3. Look people in the eye when you speak.  Nothing screams confidence more than a person that isn't afraid to make eye-contact.
4. Have a firm, solid handshake.  A handshake used to be someone's word.  It's important.
5. While we're at it, keep your word!  Your word is all you've got; demonstrate your strong character by keeping your word.
6. Know the dress code.  While I understand that comfy clothes feel best, sometimes we've all got to dress up.  Know when to wear that suit and when those shorts are appropriate.
7. Hold the door...for everyone.  It demonstrates you value others and shows how much of a Southern gentleman you've become.
8. Walk on the outside of the girl.  That means, walk next to the curb so she won't get splashed if a car hits a puddle too close to you.  This also lends a sense of chivalry in that you're protecting her from whatever may come your way.
9. The best gift I was given for high school graduation was a copy of "Emily Post's Etiquette".  This book covers everything from everyday to work to social etiquette.  It has gotten me out of many a scrape; it can help you, too!
10. Always write thank you notes.  Nothing says you appreciate someone like a well-written thank you note.
11. Have a sense of humor.  Taking life too seriously will leave you wrapped around the axle, and that's no way to live life.
12. As your Papaw always says, "never discuss religion, politics, or which cereal is the best" in a group setting.  That only leads to trouble.
13. Love deeply, live passionately, and pass it on.
14. Tell the truth - always.  There are no excuses acceptable for someone who lies.
15. Live within your means.  Yes, there are plenty of things out there that are bright and shiny, but they are the 'here and now'.  Live for the 'forever'; those are not things - they are people.

I hope I've instilled the above in you before you read this letter.  However, if this letter serves as a gentle reminder, then that's just as well, too.  Please know that I love you - all the way to the moon and back.

Love always,

Mom