Congratulations to My Baby!

Bryant, Thomas and Me

Today we celebrate Thomas Worth Mende's official graduation from Middle School! 

Thomas is the youngest of our four children, so Bryant and I have successfully become parents of two high schoolers and one college graduate!

I am so incredibly proud of this Thomas.  This young man has never been a demanding.  He has always been happy to have his older brother's hand-me-downs without a complaint. His smile can light up a room and hugs are just part of his nature!  

Thomas is so quiet I have actually forgotten to feed him on occasion, but if he gets hungry, he is capable of finding a bag of chips and sneaking off in the corner somewhere to take care of himself.  If I ever ask him if he wants something special for dinner, he always replies, "whatever is easiest for you mom."  (the perfect response I might add)   

What is it about an undemanding personality that increases a desire to do something special for this type of person?  I need to take notes and learn from Thomas.  I find myself often demanding of people, and that isn't the way to get things done.  

In the Bible, it says, "the meek shall inherit the Earth."  If we abide by that scripture, I cannot wait to see what great things Thomas accomplishes.  I'm quite sure his gentle nature will carry him far in life.  I can't wait to share in those special times with him. 

Recently, when I was feeling guilty about working so much, I said to Thomas, "I going to quit work and stay home, what do you think about that?"  He replied "Mom, I want you to be happy, and I think you are happiest when you work."  (Again the perfect answer) 

 Thomas makes me want to be better at everything I do so that he can be as proud of me as I am of him which is next to impossible.

I shared a little advice with Thomas this morning I found on instagram "No one is you, and that is your power"  I do believe we all possess an inner power we are often unaware we have.   We can make a difference in life if we search deep for ways to do so.  I expect Thomas will discover the way..

Thomas was not amused with the "selfie" but hey, he indulged me anyway?

The sage advice that was given at the graduation ceremony is worth sharing.  The headmaster gave five things to focus on for success.  

1) Focus on potential

2) Realize your "own" potential

3) see yourself as successful

4) build a network of relationships.

5) there was a 5th but I got side tracked by my neighbor...anyone there who what #5 was?

Oh well, guess we will figure it out!  Now we are off to the class pool party!

Congrats to Thomas!  I'm so proud to be your Mom!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ~Jeremiah 29:11