As I turn 40

These are the 40 memories of what I believe, are the most impactful values my parents passed on to me, in my younger years.

Each of these beautiful teachings, got me, I believe, to where I am. And today, as I celebrate my 40th birthday with my own children, I look back with a smile and am truly grateful for all the things my parents taught me. Here is a list of some of them.


Mum
1. Everything in moderation
2. Wear nice shoes with high heels
3. Put on pretty make up
4. Get your hair done
5. Work hard
6. Spend time with friends
7. Dance at parties (memories of the birdie dance still however haunt me)
8. Keep busy, swim, badminton, line dancing and ideally with friends
9. Don't waste anything,  recycle and reuse where you can
10. Go out into the world to discover it for yourself
11. Sunday school and guides are good activities
12. Licking the bowl after baking is one of the best treats around
13. Not to (visibly) worry about your kids
14. Earning money and getting a job when you can is good
15. Live within your financial means
16. Go do it, you can always come home
17. Chocolate frozen vienetta is a classy dessert
18. Seeing the world is important
19. You can get anywhere on a bus
20.  Be generous with what you have


Dad
1. The difference between right and wrong
2. Have parties at home
3. It’s good to be different
4. Understand the importance of values
5. Go frequently to the gym, play sport and be physically active
6. Good food is to be enjoyed
7. Go to nice restaurants
8. Buy the best you can afford
9. Buy new gadgets
10. Indulge in goodies and treats
11. Debate with people who knock at your door with different world views
12. Respect people who stick up for their beliefs, support unions or people who go on strike
13. Read and respect books
14. Relaxing on the sofa is good for the soul
15. Good telly is great entertainment
16. Fit in and accommodate others
17. Work smart
18. Enjoy freebies
19. There is no such thing as a free lunch
20. People in management are not necessarily smarter than you

Dear mum and dad, thank you. If I can pass on some of these values to my kids, they will turn out just fine.