Being nice
Ella - dear - you're 3 now. And one of the common themes or our interactions is "be nice". And I don't think you know what that means... to no fault of your own... nor is it a testament to your acuity. You're 3. I don't expect you to know what most things means... especially things as subjective as "be nice".
Here's what I hope you find that it means... and as a caveat - realize that most people that know me would never say "Bret is nice." It's just not my way... and unfortunately it haunts me because - like it or not - I am your role model. And I too need to learn how to be nice.
"Being nice " - to me - means to put yourself in someone else's shoes. Take a second and realize what you are saying or doing means to the other person. Think about your interaction with them from their point of view. And if you find yourself - after projecting yourself into them - that you would be hurt or saddened by what you are doing... then reconsider it.
The phrase "You catch more flies with honey than vinegar" really does apply. You will have a much fuller and happier life if you can learn to be nice and project love. You will be let down from time to time but the friends and interaction you garner through love will pay larger dividends than by simply throwing your sheer force and will against the world. Trust me - if I could change anything about myself... I would change that I should have been nicer to people. I am trying to realize this now... but it may be too late... and to be honest... by the time you read this and understand it - it may be too late.
I wish only the best for you. I wish for you - like all parents do - a better life than myself. And part of that is by helping you avoid the pitfalls I have fallen into and providing you bridges over other pitfalls. I have no doubt that you have a beautiful soul. It's a lot like mine - it longs to be close to people but it is also guarded against itself. Self-perseverance is a popular trend in our family. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable. Trust in humanity.
I love you -
Dad
