It’s Valentine’s Day time again, and hearts are everywhere – whole hearts, which is just what hearts should be.

When Peanut was born I got lots of comments – and still do to this day – about what a cutie she is.  (And she is.  I know, I’m her mom, so I’m biased, but… it’s true.  Kid is adorable.)  And every so often, I’d get a comment along the lines of “The boys are going to be falling at her feet!” or “She’s going to be a heartbreaker!”  To which I respond: gosh, I hope not.

When my daughter grows up, I don’t want her to be a heartbreaker.  I’d much rather she be a compassionate person who shows respect and kindness to everyone she meets, and leaves their hearts perfectly intact.  Even leaves them a little bit fuller than she found them.

I want my daughter to be a good friend.

I want my daughter to know that a beautiful spirit is more important than a beautiful face.

I want my daughter to see the best in everyone she meets.

I want my daughter to value her intelligence, and…

I want my daughter to value others’ intelligence, too.

I want my daughter to give compliments freely and to mean them.

I want my daughter to proud of her friends for their achievements.

I want my daughter to treat her peers – boys and girls – with respect.

I want my daughter to behave with compassion if she’s ever the object of an unrequited crush.

I want my daughter to know that she’s loved and she deserves to be loved, even when she has an unrequited crush of her own (as we all do at some point).

I want my daughter to respect others’ beliefs, even when she disagrees with them.

I want my daughter to see beyond looks and value people for who they are.

I hope my daughter goes through life without breaking a single heart.  I know that’s a tough thing to do, especially when you’re young and thoughtless.  I plan to do my best to teach her that it’s a far, far better thing to leave a legacy of friendship and kindness than a string of fractured hearts.

Happy Valentine’s Day.  May your hearts be full of love today (and every day).