Things May Should Know

I meditate a lot on the sheer weight and volume of information that Christopher and I have to try and transmit into May's head over the next, say, thirteen years. It's a daunting task, made all the harder by the fact that we are approaching what the sci-fi types and the futurists call "the singularity." (Basically, there will be a moment when technological advances and changes in the world happen so fast that it's impossible to keep up. Some people say it's already happened.)

But there are some basics. I keep trying to distill them into a series of witty bon mots, but then I remember the very first thing I think she needs to know:

Never, ever, trust an idea that can be transmitted, in its entirety, on a bumper sticker or in a slogan chanted at a rally.

Nothing is just one thing.

Always have at least two plans. And never forget that no plan survives contact with the enemy. (although that's no excuse for not having a plan.)

Justice and rule of law are two different things. Which is more important to you depends on how much power you have.

If a guy ever tells you that you're stupid, defective, ugly, bad in bed, or otherwise belittles you, dump him before the words are done echoing in the room. If he hits you, call the cops and dump him while they are arresting him.

Always have a flashlight. And duct tape. And some string.

Even if it's not your fault, it's your responsibility. Do what you must and accept the consequences.

Don't lie. But you don't always have to be wholly honest.

Think. Then act.

Righty tighty, lefty loosey.