The following is a letter from Leon Cooper to his son, Peter, on his birthday.
Dear Pete:
Here are some things I want to pass onto you…things I’ve learned but have not routinely put to good use myself…
Be forgiving of both yourself and others
Be the first to say “hello”
Learn at least three clean jokes-but don’t keep repeating them to the same people
Don’t postpone joy
Don’t record secrets
Never give up on anybody… miracles happen everyday
Buy vegetables from truck farmers who advertise with hand-lettered signs
Surprised loved ones with little unexpected gifts
Live so when your children think of fairness, caring, and integrity, they think of you
Use your wit to amuse not to abuse
Be brave even if you’re not…nobody will be able to tell the difference
Be sure and stop at the lemonade stands
Choose your life’s mate carefully-from this decision will come 99% of your happiness or misery
Smile a lot-it will make people think you know something about them. Besides, it doesn’t cost anything
I feel privileged in letting you stand on my shoulders…now you can see farther than I can.
With much love, Dad