Because I love NPR

This I believe

I believe that every child should be wanted, cherished and cared for. I believe in equal pay. I believe in the power of experience.

I believe that kindness goes further than money. I believe in the benefits of exercise. I believe that learning yoga helps you to relax.

I believe in brushing your teeth and saying your prayers. I believe in watching your mouth around impressionableness and laughing at truly funny jokes. I believe in biodegradable cleaning products. I believe the children are our future.

I believe music soothes the soul. I believe love is the universal language. I believe in funding science and literacy and efforts to end hunger.

I believe in an individual's unique contribution to the world. I believe in getting outside. I believe in getting dirty and staying up late just because. I believe in watching the sunrise.

I believe in immunizations. I believe in compost and manure. I believe in washing your face at night. I believe in moisturizer and sunscreen.

I believe you can never get enough of what you don't need. I believe in the restorative power of a nap. I believe in medication and in the existence of mental disorder. I believe in having pets that don't sleep in your bed. I believe in not sharing my breakfast.

I believe in separation of church and state. I believe in free expression of press and art. I believe that others' opinions are valid.

I believe my opinions are valid. I believe that what I think and feel and believe matter. I believe that what I do matters.

I believe my kids are worth every effort. I believe in reading with my kids. I believe in playing with my kids.

I believe in family vacations and family hikes and family meals. I believe in the beauty of words. I believe in the power of conviction. I believe in being in awe. I believe there is always something to believe in.

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Just felt like posting that. It's been hanging out in my word document for a few months now (like most things I jot out between diaper changes, block building and the never ending 'snack time'). It was a particularly challenging day/week/month... I can't really even remember the circumstances, except that I felt a real need to remind myself that there are still things that I believe in, things that I strive for, that I would give my life for. That I am giving my life for. Given the last couple years, it's good to be reminded of that.