This article idea came to me during a critical writing class when we were told to write a letter to a future son, so no, this isn't a pregnancy announcement. This is what I came up with:

To my future son,

As your mother, a woman, I want you to not only respect yourself but women as well. As I write this, there are multiple leaders threatening the rights that women have. This is what you need to know, self-control is your bestfriend. You will be forever a coward if you rape someone, no matter the circumstance. There are no exceptions for this. You should treat women with respect just as you will treat men with respect. You will need to hold women at the same standard as you do men. We are equal, and I will do my best to instill that thought in you.

You must never judge a person's ability based on their gender, race, religion or sexual orientation. Do not be ignorant. Those factors do not make anyone inferior nor superior. You should fight to protect your own rights, but also your friends' rights, (even if your rights aren't being threatened). Standing up for what you believe in does not make you weak. You can fight for the rights of groups that you yourself do not belong to.

You should respect your elders, and the wisdom they have to give you. Take time to listen to stories from the past, and don't be afraid to ask them what they think of the present. Keep up to date with your current events, as most things will involve you. You must stay educated, it is extremely important. Don't be afraid to develop your own opinions and ideas.

Don't be afraid to try something new. If you fail at something it is not the end of the world, and you may choose to try again. Life is full of so many experiences that you will come across. Never take life for granted, ever. Life is so rich, you must open your mind.

Be humane, ethical and moral in any decisions that affect others, whether you know it or not while making that decision. I beg of you to not be judgmental and to try to understand those that you might not right away. An open-mind will get you farther in life than any degree out there alone. Understand that there are such things as privileges and you should use yours to do good in the world. Use your voice to be heard. Stand up for what you believe in and support others in their fight for what they believe in.

There is strength in numbers, and you must be willing to join forces with others. Never be ignorant, and always be willing to listen. You will never know who needs you in the world.

Sincerely,

Your Mother (An advocate for change and understanding)