The Best of Both Worlds

With a nod towards Rudyard Kipling; for my daughter, my little half-breed, I wish her:

• The freedom of the New World and the humility of the Old World.

• An English vocabulary, the American confidence to speak up.

• The drive and ambition of America, coupled with a sense that the greatest happiness can come from a quiet and unassuming life.

• The competitive spirit of American sports with British fair play and good sportsmanship.
  

• A good education without the need to wear it across your chest or on a bumper sticker on your car.
  

• That knowledge is an end in itself, not just a step in the pursuit of the almighty dollar.

• To know that beauty is not defined by blonde hair, blue eyes, a size zero or straight white teeth (sadly both of her countries will fail to teach her this).
  

• To live in a country where neither the Old Boys Network nor a lack of money will determine her future.
  

• The confidence of her own opinions without the need to enforce them on every person she meets.
  

• The 'freedom' to support the Lakers, Manchester United, the Dodgers and England football club otherwise she will be disowned.
  

• To be as happy knee deep in muck on a windy hillside as lying on a million dollar yacht in a sun-drenched harbor.
  

• American generosity, without overeating, over-dressing or over-killing.

• To be comfortable with her own body and able to physically express herself, with the knowledge that she won't die if she sees a naked breast on TV or on a beach.

• To have fun, play, and be a child, yet be able to behave with dignity and class.

• To dream big, like Americans, and still be happy with living small.

• To forgive her mother her idealistic ramblings.