My Promises to Matty

For my first Mother's Day I was given a wonderful book called "100 Promises to My Baby." It was written by Mallika Chopra, new-age movement leader Depak's daughter. It's a wonderful treasure that she wrote when she was pregnant with her first daughter, and is filled with stories of family and lessons of life and love.

Upon receiving it, I read it daily to Matty, often when I was nursing him in our early months together. The book inspired me to make my own list of promises to my baby boy. I just came across my list and wanted to share it.

I have read it a few times in the last 3 years but hopefully by posting it and making it "public" you will help keep me true to it as this journey through parenthood gets harder over the years. That this was what I wanted for our brand new boy when we were just getting started.

My Promises to Matty:

I promise to never tear myself away from your gaze.

I promise to remember how I react to the world shapes your perceptions and fears of it.

I promise to remember that my apprehensions about the world do not need to be yours.

I promise to show you a loving marriage and that your parents are best friends.

I promise to start new traditions with you and honor old ones.

I promise to tell you stories of those who lived before you.

I promise to remind you to give back and care for our Earth.

I promise to remember that a happy boy is more important than a spotless home.

I promise to foster your imagination and creativity.

I promise to play with you.