Do I Make You Proud?
This week I read a quote from Prince Harry, “I honor my mother in everything I do.” He went on to say, “I certainly hope and believe everything I do makes her proud.” I can relate to Prince Harry and understand his motivation.
Several years back, I was in a leadership program – the mission of the program was to introduce the participants to the local community and spark ideas where the community might need some change. The very last meeting we were to present our group project to the class and a panel of local officials. Without going into all the details, our project was to increase suicide awareness, with my brother’s story being at the heart of it. Of course, my portion of the presentation was to tell his story, so as I wrote it all out in preparation, I worried about sharing too much detail. I had to send what I’d written to my mom and dad and get their blessing. I wanted to present it in a way that would make them proud. Their response stuck with me and is partially what inspired me to start writing about my personal experiences.
When you lose both your parents, I think it’s especially hard because you don’t “belong” to anyone (here on earth) anymore. It’s a really weird feeling. Your parents are that anchor, that safe space, and for most people – everything we do is to gain their approval.
So, here’s an open letter for all those who’ve lost their anchor and wonder if they make their parents proud.
Your desire to make your parent(s) proud in and of itself likely makes them the proudest. That desire is proof that you respect them, love them, and hold the family values to a high regard. Your mom and dad never wanted you to feel like you had to be perfect, they only wanted you to be authentic and genuine – a person of good character.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will grow up to be a person who treats others well. If kindness is at the heart of all you do…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will grow up to be a successful contributor to society. If you go to work each day and give it your all. If you strive to leave every workplace and the people there better than you found them…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will be generous. If you are giving of your time, talent, and treasure, and lead your life with a philanthropic heart…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will be empathic and treat others with compassion. If you look at others with a caring heart and lend them an ear or a helping hand when they need it…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will make others feel valuable and cared for. If you include others and invite them to your table, especially the lonely ones…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will stand up for others and what they believe in. If you find moments of bravery where you take a bold stand for an injustice you see…yes, you make them proud.
Every parent hopes and dreams their child will be understanding when others say the wrong thing or make a mistake. If you are forgiving of others and love them through their mistakes…yes, you make them proud.
Remember, my friend, the desires in your heart to make your parent(s) proud speaks volumes. YOU MAKE THEM PROUD. Every day, in all you do, you make them proud.
I live my life like Prince Harry and try to honor my parents in all I do. They lived a life of goodness and integrity and I live each day striving for that. I won’t always be perfect, and that it is okay too.
I believe I’m honoring my parents and my brother through sharing my story and my experiences, just like my parent’s advised me that day. When I asked for their blessing to share my brother’s story, my mom’s exact words were, “We’ve been given experiences in our life for a reason, good and bad, and it’s our duty to share if we believe it will help someone else.” I was granted permission that day to share my story, knowing it would make my parents proud.
Photo by Anastasia Sklyar on Unsplash
Karla
Love everything you write, Jessica! You’re a very special lady!!!
Amy
Perfect. Love you
Jen
You are amazing Jessica! Love you sis!
Aunt Sharon
Jessica, your parents were so proud of all of you! I wish you could have seen your dad’s face when he talked about you going to college and the Leadership program. You are a sweet, kind soul! Your writing about your experiences are helping others more than you know! I am proud to be your aunt! Love you forever!
Lou Higdon
Great job as always!! Your sweet Momma and Daddy are sooooo proud of YOU!!! You are amazing and i love you to pieces 💕💕 YOU have touched more people than you will ever know!!!
Bridget
I’m so proud of you! Thank you for sharing. ❤️
Kristie
Love this, Jessica!