December 27th, 2011
Dear Sam,
You are my daughter and I love you very much. It is because of this I share this advice: everything is ok in moderation (saying from my Grandpa Binley). It is ok to party on the weekends (moderation) but not every day. You are in the final phases of being an adult. Someone who will make her mark on the world - or not. Don't let this important time pass without investing in your future. I know it sounds corny but 20 years from now it will be words of wisdom. You never get time back, it passes whether you pay attention or not. Stick with my Grandfather's saying and you will do well. You do not want to be 30 years old not able to find your keys because you smoked too much pot. Laugh, but think of those you know that this statement is true.
You have a chance to really think about what you want your life to be about and work towards making that dream happen. But once you go down a path is it very hard to turn around and start over - almost impossible if you just study the odds. All adults say if I only could make that decision again and do something different, but they can't. Think about what you would say to your mom today if you could have 15 more minutes with her. Think what she would tell you today if she could. Sam, I am in the last third of my life, and you are in the first third of yours. Listen to what I am trying to make you understand - try really hard to have a purpose and drive towards something while you can. Even with a purpose life gives no guarantees - you might get sick and die young, your life will be better with you trying to accomplish something for yourself greater than partying and hanging out with your friends. Changes are you will not even know any of your friends today in 10/20/30 years. My Dad always said to me "effort equals results." Sam - try harder, you owe it to yourself and no one else.
Love,
Dad
