Things to educate children!

This was a list of suggestions I offered to my younger brother in the late 2000s as he prepared to start high school. A part of me regrets that I did not at least get to talk to him about most of these things; it was in a letter that I never sent. Even though I did give some advice in messages and conversations, I recently discovered this page in my notes and felt it only right to share it with the rest of you. Your judgement matters...

1. Don't stress over hanging out with the wrong crowd. The majority of the time, they move in the incorrect way.

I didn't say this to be rude or mean-spirited. It is merely based on numerous Facebook friend requests and years of observation. That is a path you do not want to go.

2. Avoid starting battles, but resist being intimidated. They are capable of recognizing defeat.

It's a challenging chore, but one you must think about and comprehend as long as you are bothered by those who are unable to take a hint. I should note that this does not always imply that there will always be other pupils. There are many instructors who are unnecessarily aggressive, and they ought to be held to a lower standard. Words really are weapons, particularly when secretly recorded and given to the authorities. As a last option, use your fists.

3. Pick a subject to study that you genuinely like. Nothing is worse than pursuing a degree and discovering that is not who you are.

Once again, I've witnessed this in action: a student I knew always fretted over his grades and was anxious on the day of an exam or test that his scores wouldn't pass. After we split up, I did not see him for many years; we were not friends; nonetheless, I was informed that he went on to become a kindergarten teacher. When working with school glue and construction paper, there is no need for all that complex math and calculus. Please be kind. It is not a magic lantern; it is a diploma. Chance and danger are a part of life. Try it out!

4. Make acquaintances with others who have interests other than your own. They will teach you more than any other student you meet at school.

If you are being streamed into a specific subject or academic level, you could disagree with this, but keep in mind that everyone is following a specific river (stretching that metaphor out as much as I can, I see). You should associate with young people who enjoy drawing, basketball, sculpture, amphibian studies in their free time, and who aspire to careers as mechanics and farmers. Your understanding of the world will be more complete as a result of that interest. Speak with them.

5. Grades don't always matter. It sounds strange to say, yet it is entirely accurate.

I had brilliant pupils who didn't amount to much, as well as academic failures who are now running their own businesses, so please accept this from a college professor. Once more, the degree is not a magic lantern.

6. Refrain from letting your buddies pressure you into making a bad decision. You are a bright child, and you will understand this (see note no. 1).

Read numbered one? So I won't add anything to this then. You are a clever youngster who is morally aware. Remember that.

7. Find an intelligent woman and remain with her. I would advise going to the student who does well in the classes you get bad scores in, wears spectacles, and sits alone in the cafeteria.

I am aware that... There will always be other girls to divert your attention with their lines, phrases, gestures, dress, and other such things. But watch out for those who aren't trying; those who are aware that their own thoughts and feelings are a fascinating universe in which to exist. Once more, you will receive knowledge—possibly about yourself.

8. Avoid taking the weekend off. You'd better make good use of that extra time (find a hobby or skill not taught in school).

Money alone cannot buy time. It is much more valuable. You must cultivate all of the qualities that will make you fascinating outside of the classroom, including your friendships, interests, hobbies, and abilities.

After you graduate, you'll discover that not everyone is interested in learning about your straight-An academic record. They might want to know who you truly are.

9. Put much effort into your studies. This goes beyond merely performing well in school; you should also be studying life (it is right in front of you, running hot and fast).

You're already familiar with "The School of Life." It is, in fact, quite genuine. There aren't any requirements, reading materials, examinations, or exams, and there isn't even a graduation ceremony. For any of us, learning is a process that never ends. Keep an open mind and develop the ability to absorb and analyses the world around you.

10. Continue to talk to your uncle. He is anxious to discover if his words were appropriate.

What do I know, hey? I simply want you to avoid making the same errors or going through the same "difficult learning experiences" that I did (I may have something worth hearing).