Wisdom From My Parents

A conversation with my Mum reminded me of some of the subtle tips my parents have given us over the years. It's amazing what you unconsciously pick up from your family, advice which isn't shown as much as spoken.

• We didn't have much money when you guys were kids. But now you've all got your own jobs and lives, you're free to buy what you want. However, don't buy the first thing you see. If you want it, shop around. There's no reason to be ashamed of a bargain.
  
  
• Music is a right, not a privilege. It's one of the world's universal languages. Don't argue because you have different music tastes. Instead, share what you love about it. You never know what you might discover.
  
  
• It's not “geeky” or “nerdy” to read. If you want to read a book, read it. Again, you never know what you might discover.
  
  
• The same goes for art, science, engineering, and any other subject people might look down on you for exploring. Go and explore. It's a big world out there.
  
  
• Speaking of which... You all have passports for a reason. If you can afford to, use them! 
  
  
• Your country of birth (the UK) allows freedom of movement around Europe. Go and explore. Go and live somewhere different for a while. If you stay, you stay. If you don't, you don't. There's no shame in saying you don't like something.
  
  
• The same goes for food. If you like the sound of it, try it. However, we're not going to force you to eat bull's testicles.
  
  
• Take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints. And take lots of photos. You'll be glad you did.
  
  
• If you're going away, tell someone where you're going. We're not prying. We just want to know where to get hold of you in case something happens.
  
  
• Be nice to people. Seriously. The world may tell you you have to be a bitch to get anywhere in life. But do you want to be remembered for being the nasty one or the one who was nice? Think about it.
  
  
• If you're making a cup of tea, make one for everyone. You know the rules. Besides, it's rude to just boil the kettle for yourself.
  
  
• We're not going to be around forever so if there's anything you need to know, ask it now. Especially if it concerns repairing your car/house/computer/that aircraft you've been saying you get when you make your first million.
  
  
• Remember, no matter what happens in you life, we've got your back. We're your parents and we love you (even if you do sometimes drive us up the wall!).