My Dearest Son Who Would Cringe If He Knew I Was Writing This Letter,
Today you are starting high school!! (Like, no duh Mom.) I know, I am a master of the obvious. But seriously, this is a big deal…at least for me as a mom. And I think I could tell by the nervous expression on your face this morning that you know it’s a big deal, too.
But let me be clear about this: starting high school is a big step, but in the end, these four years you spend in high school probably won’t be a big deal in the grand scheme of things. So, please, babe, do like we always ask you to do—your best—and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. I know Dad and I have already given you some advice (hopefully not too much), but I have just a little more to add to that. I have an F-word I want you to consider as you enter high school.
No, not THAT F-word. And it’s not “freshman” or “friendship” either, though those certainly relate.
It does have four letters, though. It’s FAIL.
Babe, because I know you, I know you’re afraid to fail. And because of that, you’re afraid to take risks. I’m not talking about “risky” behavior, I’m talking about taking a new class or joining a new extracurricular activity. I’m talking about…putting yourself out there.
Admittedly I am totally biased, but I think you’re a super smart, nice, friendly, capable kid who can do a LOT of things well.
