You flex your muscles and are quick-witted, you are smart and want to know more about this thing called the World. Last week you told a girl you loved her and I lost another piece of my baby. When the ultrasound wand confirmed we were having a boy, I cried and whispered to Daddy, “a son.” Because we all know about the dad and son relationship. But I didn’t know about the mother and son one and how you, this boy with his big bright blue eyes and tender heart, would undo me. Nearly every day for the past 5 years, you have touched my soul in some way. You are the first to ask “Did you sleep good?” or say “Mama, you look so pretty today.” You can also burp my name and name nearly every kind of dinosaur. So, there’s that.
Every day you getting a little older and a little smarter, a little more independent. I greedily take each hug and snuggle you offer freely because I know one day I will have to beg for them. You want to know when you can drive, when you can stay home instead of going to the store with me, when you can watch as much TV as you want. Please, SLOW DOWN!
Since today you turned 5 yrs old, and although there are many things that I want to say to you, I've broken it down to 5.
You don’t have to fit in. The world expects you to act a certain way. Culture demands it. But it’s okay to be a square peg in a round hole, to look different, be yourself. It’s alright to chart your course to your plan, even when others might not understand it. Yes, you might feel odd or weird chasing it, but that’s okay, most world changers do.
You don’t have to be tough (all the time). Boys are supposed to be rough and tough. Maybe you’ve heard that “real men don’t cry” and always wear a stiff upper lip. But I want you to know real men are tender, they care about others, and root for the underdog. They rush to open the door for others and use their manners. And when they grow up, they sing lullabies while they tuck their babies into bed. Just like your Daddy.
You make me proud. If you didn’t do another thing, win an award, or get an A, I want you to know I’m proud of the young man you’ve become. I love the way you love your sister (most days). I love the way you are a good friend and listen to others. I love the way you follow your heart. I am proud of you, son.
You can always come home. No matter what happens in this life, what you do or don’t do, you always have a place with us. We might make you want to leave with our rules or ask you to because of your actions, but we won’t stop you from coming home.
You are loved. No matter how long those legs grow or how high I have to look up to you, you will always be mine. I can still wipe your tears and listen to your heart. I can still ground you and make you say your sorry (hopefully). No matter what you do or what happens in this life, you are mine and nothing can change that. If you never hear another word I say or choose not to listen, you must believe that you are loved deeply by your parents. Don’t ever doubt it. Believe it. This life might bring great joy or sorrow, great wealth or loss, but you can make it because you have love.
Happy Birthday, my little man.
