By: Sarah Mitchell
In the latest episode of Mad Men, viewers were left grappling with Betty’s alarming lung cancer diagnosis, a twist that elicited a mix of shock and a sense of poetic justice for the character often critiqued as a cold mother. However, what truly struck me was the letter Betty handed to her daughter, Sally. Rather than a heartfelt note to bridge their emotional gap, it was a chilling set of instructions detailing her burial preferences, right down to the dress and makeup. It epitomized Betty’s adherence to the ideals of her era: if she was going out, she was going to look fabulous doing it.
This made me reflect on a letter I penned for my own daughters a few years ago. Unlike Betty, I share a deep, loving bond with my kids and cherish my role as their mother. My husband, however, is a cancer survivor, and those nights spent worrying about his health have solidified a pivotal realization: I have to ensure that my girls are prepared for anything that life might throw their way. So, I took the time to write them a letter filled with guidance for the future. Here are some of the key points I shared:
- Master the Art of Driving a Manual: Life is akin to a highway, and it’s essential to take the wheel rather than be a passive passenger. Don’t expect an automatic route; instead, learn to navigate the gears—accelerate when you can and slow down when necessary. Embrace the challenges of the lower gears because, when you finally hit the high speeds, you’ll appreciate the journey all the more. Plus, there’s nothing more empowering than a woman who knows how to handle her own ride.
- Recognize Toxic Relationships: Identify those who drain your energy—drama queens, manipulative friends, narcissists. While generosity is admirable, know when to draw the line. It’s okay to cut ties with those who consistently bring negativity into your life. You don’t owe anyone endless chances if they continue to hurt you.
- Choose a Partner Wisely: Marry someone who embodies the qualities you admire. I chose your father for his intelligence, humor, loyalty, and work ethic. Looks are a bonus, but genuine character is paramount. Don’t rush into relationships; take your time to find someone who truly complements you.
- Embrace Your Flaws: Focus on the physical trait you dislike the most about yourself until you learn to appreciate it. For my sister, it was her freckles—once a source of shame, they now symbolize her unique beauty. Cherish your differences, and let them empower you instead of holding you back.
- You’re Not the Center of the Universe: Remember, while you are incredibly special to me, you are not the only talented individual out there. Millions of people are striving for greatness. Expect to work hard, face setbacks, and learn from them. But know that you don’t need to be the best to be worthy of love and respect. Your value is inherent.
- Don’t Take Life Too Seriously: Life is too short to be overly serious. Laugh at the silly moments, embrace your humanity, and share that joy with others. Whether it’s a clumsy fall or a silly joke, find humor in the everyday.
In this journey called life, it’s essential to find joy while navigating the twists and turns. My dear daughters, I hope you carry these lessons with you and remember that I’ll always be cheering you on.
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In summary, life is a blend of challenges and triumphs, and how you approach it can make all the difference. Cherish your unique qualities, surround yourself with positivity, and never forget to enjoy the ride.
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