I want to share some heartfelt advice for anyone who might be listening and thinking about the future. While I don’t have kids yet, I dream of giving them a better upbringing than I had. It’s crucial to never close your heart, even when life throws curveballs at you. I believe in dreaming big—then dreaming even bigger. And while we can aim to change the world, we have to accept that we can't change people; instead, we need to work hard for what we want. Remember, even the lucky ones put in the effort, and life is sweeter when it’s filled with music. So, let’s keep our spirits high and our shoulders back as we navigate this journey together. Reflecting on the joys and challenges of parenthood, I delve into the lessons I hope to share with my future children. It's a personal journey, one that stems from a desire to provide them with a better upbringing than I experienced. Life has taught me that even when faced with adversity, it's crucial to keep our hearts open. I emphasize the importance of resilience; experiences can hurt, but they also shape us. I encourage my future kids to explore the world, to see its beauty and diversity, because every corner of this country and beyond has something valuable to offer. Dreaming is vital, but dreaming bigger is essential. I urge them to always aim above the horizon, to set goals that challenge them and inspire growth. While it's empowering to know we can change the world, I remind them that we cannot change others. This realization is liberating and helps them focus on their own paths. Hard work is non-negotiable; nothing will simply be handed to them. They must learn to stand tall, shoulders back, and claim their desires with confidence. The fortunate may seem to glide through life, but I assure them that behind every success lies hard work, often unseen. Finally, I emphasize the importance of music in our lives. No matter where they are, I want them to fill their spaces with melodies. Music transforms walls into homes, creating an atmosphere of joy and warmth. As I conclude my reflections, I leave them with a heartfelt reminder to always take care of themselves. Life is a beautiful journey, and I want them to embrace it with open hearts and open minds.

Takeaways:

1. I believe that having children is a chance to provide them a better life than I had.
2. One important piece of advice I'd love to share is to never close your heart, no matter how hurt you feel.
3. It's essential to dream big and then push those dreams even further beyond what you thought possible.
4. We should always aim above the horizon and strive for greatness in everything we pursue.
5. Remember, you can change the world, but it's important to accept that you can't change people.
6. Whatever you do in life, nothing will simply be handed to you; you need to take it with determination.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. jamesabrown.net

This is the Daily note from jamesabrown.net I don't have children, but I hope to, largely because I know I can give them an easier upbringing than I had.

And I have a few pieces of advice that I'd love to share with them.

Never close your heart, even when you're hurt.

See more of this country and this world.

Dream big, and once you do, dream bigger.

Aim above the horizon.

Yes, you can change the world, but you can't change people.

Whatever you do, nothing will be given to you.

You'll have to stand up straight with your shoulders back and take what you want.

Remember that even the fortunate have to work hard, even if you don't see it, and sing songs.

Because wherever you live, those walls are better when filled with music.

On that note, I'm James A.

And as always, be well.