Things I want to be sure my son learns:


Self-confidence - assertiveness, leadership, public speaking, acting, singing, dancing

A variety of sports - to learn to control fear: skydiving, hang gliding, swimming, skiing, 
gymnastics, boxing, wrestling, etc.

Self-defense - Aikido, karate, jujitsu

Well-Being; good nutrition, First Aid, CPR, delivering a baby, etc.  I want him to be 
knowledgeable and capable in an emergency

Street Smarts - the ability to recognize a con artist or danger quickly, and act appropriately

Money, its value, what it does to people

Appreciation of music; knowledge of at least one instrument, whistling, dancing, poetry...

Chess, bridge, poker, etc.

Psychology, openness, how to keep happy.  Maybe if he learns that he can teach me.

The difference between what we expect of the world when we're kids and what we find to 
be true when we're adults



I made this list when I joined the Marines at 17, after realizing how very 
deficient I was in all these areas.  I am proud to say that my son has done much better 
than I had, despite my blundering help.  – 4/13/06