To Thomas: On Your Sixth Birthday

Dear Thomas,

You are six years old! Six. Years. Old.  I can hardly believe it because it just seems like yesterday that I took one look at your sweet face and fell in love with you. It was unlike anything I had ever known before.  

And that feeling of wonder mixed with love has been pretty much the same ever since.


I never knew boyhood from this side: I see your fierce independence when you push a chair to the refrigerator and get the huge jug of orange juice all by yourself.  Yet I still see how fragile you are when you refuse to go into a dark room all by yourself and cuddle your body into a little ball right on my lap.

I am constantly amazed at how you interact with the world – you do everything big, especially the way you care about the people.  You are always quick to help dad empty the dishwasher and always make sure that everyone is cozy on the couch when we watch a movie.  You are going to make a great dad or police officer or firefighter or veterinarian or whatever you decide to do.

My birthday wish for you is to always have your light shine through, to follow your heart even if it is pulling you to do something different from everyone else.

See this look with that light in your eye?
You love life, and it loves you right back.

I hope that you will successfully walk that fine line of caring for others, but remaining true to yourself.

I have been parenting long enough to know that I will not be able to protect you from everything that comes across your path.  But I promise I will do whatever I need to do guard that light in your eye and the tenderness in your heart.

Happy birthday, my sweet boy!

Love always,

Mommy