Dear my future kids,

First of all, you're welcome for being brought into the world because of me. Sure, your dad was involved too, but who carried you for 9 months?

Okay, here goes: there is racial and social injustice everywhere and hundreds of innocent people are dying everyday. Also, Kanye West might consider running for President in 2020.

I think Kanye thinks he's immortal, so he might still be presenting new Yeezy seasons when you're older. Be sure to check out his music, though. Okay, now back to the dying part.

I hope with all of my heart that injustice has decreased by the time you're older, but I know that will not be the case. What I do know is that I will teach every single one of you to look around your surroundings every day and realize how lucky you are. Mom and Dad are raising you in a nice suburban house with 3 dogs, but there are kids in Syria who only know of a life of life-jackets and trips across treacherous waters. You might think I'm being too dramatic, but it's right before your eyes.

You are going to have access to more technology and information than I could have ever imagined, and I live in an era of constant technological advances. So, there's no reason for you not to read news about what's happening around you. You, however, have an advantage that Grandpa and Grandma did not: different avenues to get information. Any social media site or app can let you know what's going on in the world around you in a few seconds - you're also able to choose what you want to see and what you don't. But, I beg you to not dismiss any political and social news. I mean, you'd rather be talking about prom dresses and the new iPhone, but take it from me: that's not the path you want to go down. Well, not completely.

I see way too many people my age totally unconcerned about their surroundings. They hate talking about politics and social issues and racism and sexism and the economy. In fact, I met a young woman 2 months before the November presidential election who didn't know who Tim Kaine was. They can tell you exactly how many times Kelly and Michael broke up, but they don't know anything about Germany trying to shift its refugee policy.

But, time doesn't stop. While you're enjoying a Saturday in the pool, another unarmed black man has already been killed by the police, a rapist has already been given a minor punishment, and someone has given up on their dream of attending college because they can't afford it.

I'm not saying you should feel guilty. Not at all. There are bad people in this world and they breed and nurture more negative people. You can't control others' actions; however, you can control conversations. Talk to your friends about what's happening with a new rape case on a college campus, how the economy could be improved, where institutionalized racism starts, etc. But, also talk about these issues close to home. Why is your boyfriend so afraid to express his emotions? Why is your friend scared of going to parties all of a sudden? Why is your friend afraid of dying when he gets pulled over by the police? The point is, these issues of racism, sexism, misogyny, misandry, inhumane behavior, socioeconomic status, etc are all heavy topics, but they can present themselves around you in the smallest of ways. You just have to be on the lookout. Talk about your opinion, the solutions, what others think, etc. It's perfectly okay to not have an answer; in fact, even world leaders struggle with addressing some of the world's most serious problems. The point is, you can create a dialogue and involve others. You can start to fix the issues close to home, and you can influence others to also be more cognizant of the injustice faced by others. The conversation will grow and grow.

You'll think twice before calling all girls "bitches" or calling your male friend "a baby" or "a pussy" because he is too afraid to do something. You'll think twice because putting on a chain and wearing a cap backwards while saying, "I'm so ghetto, guys." You'll think twice before complaining about immigrants taking your jobs because Grandpa and Grandma were immigrants and helped raise you. You'll think twice before insulting someone based on negative stereotypes you learned from someone else and then following up with, "Lol, I was only kidding. No need to get so offended."

At times, you'll feel emotionally worn out. It will seem as if all you hear on TV anymore is another innocent death. It will seem as if you can't make a difference. But, you already are. Think about the social injustice faced by millions in silence before; now, that won't be the case. You will speak your mind, talk about the issue, and learn to understand others' points of view. At the same time, learn to take a break and get the best of both worlds. Find out why Kelly and Michael broke up or what new product the Kardashian-Jenner's are releasing or laugh at some new memes on Twitter. Relax your mind, but never forget to care.

You will have more power and access to sources Mom and Dad did not have, so think carefully about how you want to use it. Learn to have fun and post cute pictures and Snap all your friends, but never shy away from a conversation when a friend asks, "Who do you think should be President?" or "Why have so many unarmed black men been killed in that city?" Keep the conversation going.

Lastly, don't forget to take the dogs out for a walk. Also, seriously, listen to Kanye's music. I swear he's cool! And, no, I did not vote for him in 2020.

Love always,

Mom