To the kids I babysit:

First of all, know that I love you more than you know. At least as much as you love candy, if not more. After taking care of you during PTA meetings, luncheons, and grocery store runs for over four years, I know you. I know when you’re having a good day, I know when you’re having a bad one, and I especially know when you’re telling a lie. You may not think so but the tiny smile that peeks through when you tell me that you already finished your homework earlier tells me otherwise. I want you to know that I would jump in front of a bullet for you. After you’ve gone to bed, when I hear a noise, I’m not scared for myself. I am scared because if anything were to ever happen to you my heart would shatter. Whether you like me at that moment or not (sorry I put you in timeout earlier) I would never turn my back on you. While you are not my own child, I treat you as if you are. And that is why I want to give you some advice.

Continue to show everyone that unlimited kindness even as you get older. It will be hard sometimes, but I believe in you.

That popular girl, who makes snarky comments, will still be popular throughout life even if you have been told differently. However, unlike you, she might not have lifelong genuine friends.

Keeping your thoughts to yourself in sticky situations will save you a whole lot of trouble in the long run. Burned bridges are hard to rebuild.

People change, friends change, friend groups change, you will change. Just remember that there are still seven billion other people in the world.

Moms really do know everything. Seriously. It’s scary. Moving on...

Probably the most important piece of advice I can give you is to always be honest, and always be genuine. I know you’ve heard me say it over and over, probably while making you a grilled cheese, but it’s true. Your GPA (ask dad) will only get you so far. Your character is what truly matters.

Lastly, I want to thank you. I want to thank you for laughing with me (and at me). I want to thank you for telling me what I need to hear. Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being you. As you get older, things will get harder. Remember this letter and know that everything passes with time. And always, always call me if you need me.

Love,

Margaret

P.S. The Game of Life may be a board game, but you’re right — no one wants to land on “pay your taxes.”