Teach them…

To see possibilities when all they’re shown are limits. 

To be kind when they are faced with cruelty.

To be brave in the arena of obscurity.

To push forward when all seems lost.

To cry when tears are needed.

To laugh whenever there is a need for a smile.

To hope when all might seem hopeless.

To not hide behind the lies that keep them comfortable.

To stand up and speak, not just their mind, but their heart. 

To love all no matter what they are deemed to deserve.

To embrace the life they were given.

To explore the world one step at a time.

And to appreciate the load they bear. 

To work for what they need.

To give thanks for what they have.

 To love who they are and not who they aren’t.

Most importantly, 

To follow their heart and live outside the limits.

Written: 11/14/15