An open letter to my boys on the first day of school

To my boys,

School is here. While the thermometer may disagree, summer is over. No more sleeping late. No more binge-watching Netflix. Time to cut Snapchatting back by at least 1/2. It’s time to get up, get ready and get the heck out of the house. Here are a few things I want you to remember today:

  • You’ve gotten your school schedules. You’ve already done reconnaissance on your teachers. Great. I only request one thing: Go into their classes with an open mind. Remember, just because one of your friends didn’t like a teacher might have something to do with your friend, not your teacher.
  • Sit as close to the front as you can. Ask questions. Seek help after class or make an appointment. If your teacher knows you, that will help your grades — and your learning experience.
  • Do your homework. I know, you just heard that in your mother’s voice. But do as much preparation as you can before you get to class. The more you are exposed to material, the easier it is to learn it.
  • Don’t make good grades your goal. Make learning your goal — good grades will follow.
  • Don’t cram for tests. Trust me, you won’t remember anything a couple of days after the test.
  • Don’t procrastinate. Do as Elvis said, “Take care of business in a flash.”
  • Have fun. I’m 30 years out from high school and I still remember the good times. (Just don’t have too much fun. I’m still your parent, after all.)
  • Know that your mother and I are very, very, very proud of you. We are here to support you. Now, if you screw up and get in trouble, you must pay the consequences. But we’ll always be behind you to help you succeed. We know your potential. You can exceed us in so many ways.

Just remember this.

Chase your dreams. Catch your dreams. Own your dreams.

You’ve got this.

Love, Dad.

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