To My Sons on their Eighteenth Birthday

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