Dear Maddy,
Today is your last day
of day care. I will hold your little hand as we walk inside your preschool classroom
for the last time. We will end this part of your life in the same way we
started – together. Since you were three months old, you’ve been in day care.
In this time, you’ve learned so much: how to walk, how to talk, how to
socialize, colors, numbers, and so much more. Your father and I have watched
you grow from a helpless baby into a semi-independent girl and on Monday, you
will start a new chapter of your life – kindergarten, or “big girl school” as
you like to call it.
Although you’ve been to
day care and preschool all these years, kindergarten will be different. This is
what I’m told anyway. I wouldn’t know as I haven’t been there in 35 years, but
the important thing to remember is that it’s the start of your official school
record. It’s such an exciting time for you, Maddy. There are so many things I
want to tell you about what you’re getting ready to experience but for now,
this is what I want to tell you:
Do What You
Know Is Right.
You have been raised to
know right from wrong and you are blessed with the gift of discernment. Listen
to the still, small voice that guides and directs you every day. Stand firm in
what you know is good and right even if it’s not popular or well-received. At
the end of the day, your character is the only thing that matters. Don’t
compromise it for anyone.
Respect Your
Teacher.
Aside from your father
and me, your teacher (hopefully) will be your biggest support and advocate in
your learning. This person has sacrificed their own time and money to give you
the best start possible to your school career. Respect that, and the job they
are doing that helps you.
Be Yourself.
One of the best things
about starting kindergarten is the opportunity to make new friends and while
that’s exciting and new all at the same time, don’t forget who you are. It’s okay to be different. Our
differences is what makes the world go ‘round. Appreciate the talents and ideas
that your new friends bring to the table but never forget what makes you truly
special – simply being you.
Accept That
You Will Make Mistakes and That’s Okay.
The only guarantees in
life are death, taxes and mistakes. Everyone makes them as we are all imperfect.
I’m 40 and mess things up every day. Don’t beat yourself up when you make a
mistake, instead, learn from it. Grow from it and keep your life moving. No
successful person ever got anywhere wallowing in their self-pitty and goof-ups.
Never Stop
Asking Questions and Being Curious.
One of the many things
I love about you is your curiosity. You’re always asking me or daddy questions
about everything. Don’t ever lose
your sense of wonderment in the world around you. Yes, it will make you a
better student but more importantly, a better person. Keep your mind and heart
open to new experiences, places and people.
Embrace and
Celebrate Diversity.
We are all unique in
our own ways and bring something different to the table. All of us want to be
loved, befriended and accepted for who we are. If you see that another child is
struggling or needs help, ask what you can do to assist. Never make fun or pick
on anyone. You wouldn’t want it done to you, right?
Don’t Forget
to Have Fun!
You will only be young
once. As you get older, you will gain more responsibility so yes, while kindergarten is the beginning of your scholastic career… its still just
kindergarten (shhhhh. You never heard me say that). Don’t forget to laugh, to
play and relish in your youth. One day you will be old, like me.
Oh, Maddy. I’m so proud
of you and excited to see what is in store over the next year. I can’t wait to
hear about all the amazing and wonderful things you’re going to do and learn
over the next year. This is such an exciting time for you and for your dad and
me as well. Per the usual, I’m sure you will handle this all with so much grace
while your good ole mom is wrapped up in the fetal position crying myself to
sleep. You may have to help me out a little bit, okay?
So on Monday, I will
take your hand once more, albeit a little more grown up and walk with you into
the next chapter of your life.
Just remember to wash
your hands, okay?
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