Dear Maddison:
As I write this, you are just two days away from beginning your formative school years. Your family has done everything they can to pave the way for you to have a successful year. A small part of me wishes you were more excited about this big experience. But, for the most part, I think I understand your reservations to go to school. You have always been a thinker and an observer. You like to assess the situation before you "dive" in. I admire those characteristics in you. Like your Daddy, you often keep your emotions and feelings to yourself. You don't feel the need to share all of your life events with the adults around you (even though we get pretty sneaky trying to pry information out of you!). Your school clothes are bought, you have picked out some new shoes, and your supplies are hanging on a hook outside your classroom. There is just one more thing I would like to give you. It probably won't mean much to you now, but I hope, as you grow, you will begin to understand the school supplies list I am about to share with you. Use this list as you see fit, share it with others if you desire, and always remember that this is offered with love.
Maddison's School Supplies for Success List:
Glue: sticks or bottled, lots and lots required. Glue is an important part of school. Commonly used to attach paper together, a broader sense of glue could represent the need to hold it all together. I have no doubt that you will be able to do this with ease. You come from good stock, and have been given lots of love and guidance in your first 5 years of life. In everyone's life there comes a time when it feels like the pieces are coming apart. Apply a little glue, give it time to stick and never lose your faith! Glue requires application and patience to work, so let it do its job, and keep your faith and hope intact.
Scissors: rounded point, safety scissors required. All around you there are strings that keep you attached to things. Some of these strings are good to have, some aren't. Strings can hold you back from making friends and taking chances. They can also keep you grounded, so you can't "float" away. It is up to you to decide which strings you will cut and which ones you will let go. The strings that tie you to people who love you cannot be permanantly cut. They may get frayed from time to time, but the attachment will always be there. Use your scissors with caution. . .
Paper: Volumes of paper are required, since mistakes will be expected. Your life is like paper. When you begin, you are a blank piece of paper, but then your experiences begin to mark your paper (like your life). Use your paper wisely, but remember, new sheets are available, and like all change, life gives you options and chances. Use them, but don't take them for granted.
Crayons: Multicolored pack, be prepared to share with others. Crayons (like people) add color and variety to our lives. They can bring pleasure, but are easily broken. Take care of your crayons, and they will bring fun and joy into your life. Please don't step on them!
Backpack: All essential supplies must fit in pack. Lots of pockets and strong handles are suggested. Your backpack is a place to store and keep your valuables. Use it wisely, but don't fill it so full that it weighs you down. Clean it out daily, and get rid of the "stuff" which you don't need. Many people get drug down by holding onto things that should not be held on to. Let go of anger, resentment and jealousy. Keep the tools you need to have a happy, successful experience close to you. Take care of your backpack and it will do a good job for you.
Maddison, your Papa and I have watched you grow and blossom for over 5 years now. We are amazed at your intelligence, your kind heart and your gentle nature. It is so hard to watch you being sent into the world. Like your parents, we would like to keep you protected in our safe circle forever. But to do that would be to keep you from growing and becoming everything that we know you can be. Stay strong and kind and remember how much you are loved.
Mimi