10 Things I Learned from My Parents

Mother's Day and Father's Day are fast approaching and I began thinking about what gifts I could get my parents. They are the type of people who are NOT into things but always apprecite being remembered. They are NOT status conscience nor are they materialistic. They are 2 of the greatest human beings on the face of the earth. They have always been there for me, my husband and my kids. I guess the best gift I could give, and do give, is to live a good life and live by the example the set for me and my siblings. With this on my mind I give to you a list of 10 great things my parents have taught me. They taught me things either by telling me this information or from their own actions. The list is in no particular order and non-parent specific....
1. LIFE IS NOT FAIR. I think growing up this is the one thing repeated to me most often. Whether my sister, or brother, and I were fighting or if I was lobbying for some privilege or another. The cry of "thats not fair" simply did not fly in our house. Everyone is an individual and what is right for one is not neccesarily right for all. For me it has further evolved into 'Wendi (or the appropriate person) worries about Wendi".
2. SAVE your MONEY. My Dad told us this and repeadted it often. Buying things on credit was not an option. If you couldnt afford it you couldnt have it. Also, save for the future. I remember when I was young, maybe 12 years old, my Dad explained what a 401(k) was and actually showed me his statement balance. It was a nice chunk of money and it was a concrete example of what saving could do for me. The first chance I got I started in a 401(k) and continue with every job I have ever had.
3. THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM for 1 MORE. My mom is a great cook and hostess. Whenever she has family and/or friends over there is always space (and enough food) for another person. You would hate to ever leave a friend or family member alone on a holiday or special occasion.
4. DON'T OFFER ADVICE, WAIT TO BE ASKED. This is something I have learned by example. Over my teen years, newlywed, early parenting and even today my parents always are there to listen to what I have to say but don't put in their 2 cents unless I specifically ask for it. I now try to do the same with my kids and friends. Sorry if I am not as good at it as they are!
5. FAMILY is #1. There is nothing better, or more precious, than spending time with the family. Growing up Sundays were reserved for grandparents, aunts/uncles and cousins. With our busy lives we don't get to carve out quite as much time but I still do LOVE to be with my extended family. My sister, brother and cousins are truly my best friends.
6. READ. Whether it is the newspaper, a magazine or a good book always take time to read. We had the newpaper delivered daily, we went to the library to get books and we alwyas got a few magazine subscriptions every year. Reading is enjoyable, relaxing and provides a great source of knowledge.
7. DON'T TAKE YOURSELF TOO SERIOUSLY. There was a time and place for seriousness but more often there is time for laughter and, more importantly, laughing with you (not at you).
8. LOVE is UNCONDITIONAL. Even on the rare occasion I got in trouble (most often bad grades or talking back) my parents would remind me that they might not like what I did or how I acted but they still, and always would, love me. It made me feel good to know that even in my missteps or nastiness they still loved me.
9. DON'T HOLD GRUDGES. This is another thing that they rarely, if ever, mentioned but rather taught by example. Whether if it was with each other or their family memebers or friends. If they had a fight, disagreement or argument with someone it didnt last long. They didn't harbor resentment or hold it over someone's head. They simply moved on.
10. ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST. This sentiment was repeated often and sometimes too easily dismissed by me. It is something that I now repeat often to my children. I am easily proud of my children, whatever they are doing, if they simply give it their all.

This year at Mother's Day and Father's Day I will have special appreciation for my parents as I see how they have helped me become a good mom to my kids.