Happy Birthday, boys!
Now that you’re both eighteen, you’re officially adults; and technically, should be free from being
nagged, advised, and cautioned. However it’s going to be a while before I get
used to your new enfranchisement. So, on that note…
I don’t know if
you were born to achieve great things; but I know without doubt that you were born to do good things. Not
only is this so much easier; but in the long run, it is so much more important.
You are neither
elevated nor diminished by others’ opinions of you – stay true to your highest self.
You will not
meet a single person in this life who doesn’t merit your courtesy and respect;
but not everyone will deserve your love and trust. Be kind to everybody but choose your friends wisely.
Remember that how you treat others is not a reflection on what they deserve, but on who you are.
Take responsibility for your mistakes, share credit for your success.
Use both your head and your heart in making the
most important decisions of your life.
Eat a balanced
diet, practice yoga, meditate, study the principles underlying these disciplines.
Don't dismiss too easily your spiritual heritage; anything that has
worked for several millennia to the greater benefit of its adherents is worth your time and consideration.
Once in a while, step away from your computer,
your gaming console, your smart phone and make
connecting to your Self a priority. In
our society’s frenzied search for constant entertainment, make sure you don’t
miss out on the great boons of solitude, companionship, nature, literature,
art, and philosophy.
Sometimes,
things get rough – you may be knocked off your feet and have the wind kicked
out of you. Get up and show life what
kind of stuff you’re made of! I know I’ve raised men, not delicate flowers
who need to be shielded from the storm. Don’t prove me wrong.
But no matter
how strong we think we are, or how loved, or how successful, there are going to be times when we feel
ourselves slipping into despair. When this happens to you, understand that it
doesn’t mean you’re weak, just human; and there’s only one way to hold this
darkness at bay. Get to know the Light
that is within you, sooner rather than later - for there is no truer friend;
no greater strength; no deeper love.
I won’t try too
hard to convince you on matters of Faith, but consider what Werner Heisenberg
said, “The first gulp from the glass of natural sciences will make you an
atheist, but at the bottom of the glass God is waiting for you.” Live truly, and drink deeply of life.
And finally -
Eighteen years ago
today, the center of my universe shifted and that was the single best thing
that has ever happened to me. Thank you for the joy, the fun, the wonder…I
don’t know what else to say, because there just aren’t enough words to thank
the two people who make me a better person merely by existing.
I will love you always.
Amma
