Abraham Lincoln's Letter to his son's Teacher

Was searching for this letter, which I've read long back in a book, and found a video in Youtube made by sparkling galaxy. Thought I'll share it. 

Abraham Lincoln supposedly wrote this letter to his son's teacher. Its authenticity of authorship is not proven. But the thoughts reflected in the letter are worth a read and what every parent wants their child to learn to survive in this world.

"My son starts school today. It is all going to be strange and new to him for a while and I wish you would treat him gently. It is an adventure that might take him across continents. All adventures that probably include wars, tragedy and sorrow. To live this life will require faith, love and courage. 

So dear Teacher, will you please take him by his hand and teach him things he will have to know, teaching him - but gently, if you can.

He will have to learn, I know,

that all men are not just,

that all men are not true.

But teach him also that

for every scoundrel there is a hero;

that for every selfish Politician,

there is a dedicated leader…

Teach him for every enemy 

there is a friend,

It will take time, I know;

But teach him, if you can,

That a dollar earned...

Is far more vauable than five found.

Teach him to learn to lose gracefully

And also to enjoy winning

when he does win.

Steer him away from envy,

if you can,

Teach him the secret of

quiet laughter.

Let him learn early that

the bullies are the easiest to lick…

Teach him, if you can,

the wonder of books…

But also give him

quiet time to ponder

over the eternal mystery

of birds in the sky,

bees in the sun,

and flowers on a green hillside.

In the school teach him

it is far honourable to fail

than to cheat…

Teach him to have faith

in his own ideas,

even if everyone tells him

they are wrong…

Teach him to be gentle

with gentle people,

and tough with the tough.

Try to give my son the strength

not to follow the crowd

when everyone is getting on the band wagon…

Teach him to listen

to all men…but

teach him also to filter

all he hears

on a screen of truth,

and take only the good

that comes through.

Teach him if you can,

how to laugh when he is sad…

Teach him there is no shame in tears,

Teach him to scoff at cynics

and to beware of too much sweetness…

Teach him to sell his brawn

and brain to the highest bidders

but never to put a price-tag

on his heart and soul.

Teach him to close his ears

to a howling mob

and to stand and fight

if he thinks he’s right.

Treat him gently,

but do not cuddle him,

because only the test

of fire makes fine steel.

Let him have the courage

to be impatient…

let him have the patience to be brave.

Teach him always

to have sublime faith in himself,

because then he will have

sublime faith in mankind.

This is a big order,

but see what you can do…

He is such a fine little fellow,

my son!"