16 things I want to teach Claire:

1. Things that happen to you in life are not excuses for the way you live. You must accept, overcome and move on. Make yourself a better person in spite of your circumstances or experiences.

2. Value rationale and logical thinking. They will keep you out of a number of sticky situations, saving you a lot of grief in the long run.

3. Always give people the benefit of the doubt. Don't jump on the bandwagon. Draw your own conclusions and be kind.

4. Sometimes people are mean. Often, there is no rhyme or reason to it. They just say mean things without regard to how their words will effect others. And often, it is undeserved. It's okay to be upset, it's okay to acknowledge that someone hurt your feelings and it's okay to cry.

5. Don't allow people to treat you badly or break you down. Especially family. You deserve so much more.

6. Surround yourself with those that have your best intentions at heart, family or not.

7. There is wisdom that can be learned from older generations but there is new life in youth, innocence and fresh ideas. Each hold their value.

8. Take responsibility for your actions and learn from your mistakes. Making mistakes is part of life. It's how you grow as a person.

9. Nobody can make a better decision for you than yourself. In the end, all you really have in life is you.

10. Learn to trust the right people.

11. You have a right to your own opinion. Stand by it with truth and conviction. In the end, that's all you have left.

12. Always treat people with respect but do not allow them to take advantage of you. It's a fine line and you'll learn it with time.

13. You will always have your parents. We loved you before you were born. We want what's best for you. But we promise to respect your version of what is best.

14. We don't care what you aspire to be. Whatever it is, just be happy. Just be you.

15. Understand that nobody can love you fully until you love yourself. Find someone that makes you feel better about yourself and encourages you to be the best version of yourself.

16. Marry a man like your father.