Dear Q,

I believe that as your mother, it is my job to prepare you for this world, and this world is crazy! In order to thrive in it while maintaining some semblance of sanity, everything has to be in balance: mind, body, spirit, emotions. As soon as anything is off, you will lose perspective of your being.

Physical health without mental, emotional, or spiritual health is pointless. Remember, your body is a reflection of your being, but it is not who your are; it is only temporary. Learn as much as you can. Seek answers. Cry when you need to cry. Laugh a lot. Do as much as you want to, but always be.

It is also important to balance your personal life with your professional life. This world will tempt you to emphasize your professional life, make more money, and consume more. Resist temptation. At the end of your life, you will never, ever wish you had worked more hours. Don’t neglect your personal life, for that is what will fill your heart and let you be.

Love always,

Mom