Our Wishes for You

Dear Sprout and Bean,

Daddy and I love both of you very much. Everyday we pray for you, share big dreams about your futures, and wish on lots of stars on your behalves. Below you will find a simple scattering of hopes that we have for each of you.

1. Simply put, we hope that you follow your dreams. If you are passionate about something, always know that your something is special and not silly. Each one of us is blessed with gifts. Be sure to use yours as much as you can. Don't misunderstand us, "mainstream" hobbies and careers are fantastic choices. However, should you have a desire to have your life's work to be a little out of the ordinary, that's just fine with us. Always remember that our world needs beautiful, twirling ballerinas and super cowboy heroes as much as it needs lawyers and doctors. We need painters to inspire us, astronauts to explore the Milky Way, and preachers to teach us about the most important things in life. Dream your dreams and live them out.

2. Never ever tease anyone. Do not laugh at someone else's expense. Abhor mean games that have been developed to break another's heart. We were all made in God's image. The Creator of all things molded each of us in our mothers' wombs. Our Father loves each of his children and so should you. Should you ever be placed in a situation where you are tempted to taunt another with your words or condescending stares, flee immediately. Befriend the friendless, pray for them, and pray that the hearts of their tormentors would be softened. And should you ever be the ones who are teased, remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Always know that you were made specifically for God's purposes and plans for your lives. Nothing was a mistake. Not one person on this earth can negate that fact.

3. Be honest and truthful. Do not use others as scapegoats when you make mistakes. Listen to constructive criticism. Learn from each and every error that you make. Take responsibility for your actions. And do not blame others for your shortcomings. Each one of us will say things that we will regret. We will act foolishly. We will jump to conclusions and we will be judgmental. However, just because you messed up one day does not mean that you have to mess up the next day as well. Every moment we have a choice and we can change our paths that we are currently on. Be sure to watch your feet.

4. Your daddy and I are doing our very bests to lead by example. However, we fail in this area all of the time. And when occasions arise that we disappoint you, know
that although we love you with all of our hearts, we are still mere humans. Your daddy and I are sinners saved by grace -- nothing more and nothing less. You may look to us for guidance and direction; we will always do our bests for you. But when we are wrong and when we fall short, do not despair. Remember that God is the only One who is perfect. He is the only One who will never let you down. Always look to Him to lead you, to guide you, and to direct your paths. Daddy and I look to Him, too.

Know that these are just a few of our desires for you. However, each wish on this list is very important to us. As time passes, I am sure that we will have lots of discussions about all of our hopes and dreams and thoughts and actions. And we can't wait for you to share your insights and your aspirations as well.

Love always,
Mommy