This past weekend, my parents celebrated nearly a quarter of a century together. In all that time, they managed to raise a family and watch it flourish. I attribute to them every single fundamental belief that defines me as an individual. Their teachings have shaped my personality in so many ways, and I am forever grateful. The lessons we learn from our parents are invaluable, and it’s time we gave them the standing ovation they deserve.
1. Value your family and love them unconditionally.
Whoever said you can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family hit the nail on the head. I come from a very small family and can count the number of cousins I have on one hand. Because of that, I’ve learned that people will constantly enter and exit your life, but you only have one family — a family that will always support you, even when times are tough. Regardless of the feuds, arguments and grudges you may hold against each other, at the end of the day, they will always be there for you if you make the effort to show how much they’re appreciated.
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for loving me after all these years and forgiving me for the frequent mistakes I’ve made.
2. Keep yourself busy, but learn when to take time off.
Our whole lives, we’ve been taught to go from one thing to the next in a nonstop manner. My family was no exception. I swear my parents’ life mantra is “You’ll sleep when you’re dead.” Likewise, chronic overscheduling is in my nature. Although an industrious lifestyle can lead to success, my parents were always ready to step in when things were becoming far too hectic. They reminded me to stop, look around, and take life at a slower pace. Without them, I would have run myself into the ground.
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for showing me how to create balance in my lifestyle.
3. Appreciate everything you’re given and take nothing for granted.
My parents always stressed that nothing in your life is ever guaranteed. The past is unchangeable, and the future is uncertain. The only thing you can control is the present, so make no assumptions for what may happen and win each day by taking it one step at a time. I learned to cherish every opportunity I was given, since there was always the possibility that it would never happen again.
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for always teaching me to stay humble and to embrace each day at full force.
4. Never settle.
I’ve always been taught to pursue my passions, rather than settling for something less than ideal. Our parents always tell us to dream big, but at some point in life, we forget about our highest goals and instead choose something more realistic. Growing up, I was constantly reminded not to lose sight of my dreams, no matter how ambitious they were.
Thank you Mom and Dad, for encouraging me to shoot for the moon and supporting me through every bump along the way.
5. You create your own happiness.
This might be the most important lesson I’ve learned over the past years. Growing up, the Harry Potter series had a nightly presence in my household. As a kid, my parents would read a chapter to me every night before bed. My favorite quote from the whole series was: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” Throughout childhood, we become self-aware and independent. Part of this independence is realizing that we are the only ones who possess the power to change our mood, emotions and state of well-being.
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for teaching me that even when I’m feeling the lowest of lows, my happiness is my own decision.
To you, I owe absolutely everything. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for providing your unreserved wisdom, support, and compassion throughout all these years. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it.
