Yesterday I was dropping my 17 year old daughter at the airport; she was getting ready to embark on a 3 week adventure. Before saying our goodbyes she made a comment: “I am afraid, but excited”

Wow, what a great statement! If you read between the lines you would understand what she is really saying: “I am intimidated, but eager and very enthusiastic!”

This statement should be my proclamation for life:

• I decided to design and create my life!  A life full of experiences by doing something that I was passionate about and that motivates me; this life is far better than sitting, waiting, and wishing!
  

So today and everyday, do something that moves you; bend the rules, and always feel exhilarated about trying something new.

“Life is short, break the rules. Forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably and never regret anything that makes you smile.” - Mark Twain

Today’s is my son's, Gabriel, 16th birthday; he is a young man who is stuck in the middle of 2 sisters, each one a year apart from him.

Yesterday we decided to have an early celebration. As we were driving to the restaurant I could hear his sisters, like always, harassing him:
“Jibril, his nickname, please put the ugly face for the picture.”
“Jibril, do me a favor, stop laughing.”
“Jibril, stop mumbling”
“Jibril, I like your ugly hairstyle.”
“Jibril, you are always lost…”

Yes, Gabriel constantly gets harassed by his sisters, but every time he reacts with a smile, with a laugh, with a funny come back and thinking “you silly girls.” Nothing irritates him, he is a good-natured young man.

So here is my thought for you and your beautiful sisters:

Gabriel, having the right attitude makes the difference between success and failure. It doesn't matter if you're dealing with family, friends, coworkers or just random people; the right attitude counts.

Happiness is contagious and one of the best ways to find it is to find those who know how to nurture and create their own happiness, and share it freely.

You three have a great connection, you share laughter and spend time having fun. Watching how you react to your sister’s funny situations, and how you get pulled into the good humor, is great and I love it! It is refreshing and always, my spirit gets lifted.

Gabriel keep in mind, you are young man with a great attitude and people will always want to spend time with you. Individuals consciously surround themselves with people who can create goodness for themselves, and those around them. 

Gabriel, never forget the advice YOU gave me a few years ago:
“If you cannot find one thing to smile about every day, it is time to make a change!” 

My friend, you are a good man! Never change! We will always love you.