I love my parents. They have successfully raised a crazy, little kid like me into an adult without ever giving up. They taught me my first lessons in a lot of things – They’ve taught me to respect elders, listen to people before speaking, to never give up, and so many other things that make me the person I am today. But sometimes, I wish they could be open to the idea of some things that they aren’t.
I know nothing about parenting and might just suck at it when the time comes. But if there are 15 things that I will make sure to tell my kids, it would be these:
1. Crying doesn’t make you any less of a man.
It’s okay to emote. That doesn’t make you any less stronger.
2. You can play with dolls as much as you can with cars.
3. It’s normal to be gay.
Being gay or lesbian is natural. Be comfortable with your sexuality and of those around you.
4. You can marry whoever you want to – caste, religion no bar.
5. You can wear whatever pleases you.
Wearing pink doesn’t make guys girly or wearing baggy clothes doesn’t make a girl any less girly. Grow out of these stereotypes.
6. Date as many people as you like before finding the one.
I will not marry you off to a stranger, I promise.
7. Always respect and smile at the autowaala, peon, maid and all the people who make your life easier.
Gratitude is a rare virtue. Develop it.
8. Feminism is not about pulling men down, nor is it about treating women in a special way. It’s just about treating both genders equally.
Respect women, but while you’re at it, don’t disrespect men.
9. If you’re curious about anything and want to try it out, talk to me about it.
I swear I won’t judge you. I will guide you in what is best for you.
10. You can be whatever you want to be.
Become whatever you want to. If you like engineering, go for it but if you want to be a cartoonist, here are some crayons.
11. Women don’t necessarily have to cook for the house, and men don’t have to be the ‘man’ of the house.
12. Periods are not a taboo.
They are a totally natural thing that women undergo once a month. Stop talking about them in whispers.
13. People might try to pull you down, but always be confident and remember that this too shall pass.
14. Abusing is not cool.
15. Sex is natural.
The doctor uncle did not gift you to us. We produced you.
And after I am done teaching this, I will let them be and encourage them to do whatever they feel is right.
What would you teach your kids?
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