Leaves of Grass, Part Three
In Leaves of Grass, I wrote about my gratitude for Son #3 and son #2. If you don’t know why I’m writing about this, read this first.
Now for son #3.
Dear Birdie,
You probably don’t even remember that sweet little nickname I gave you when you were an infant. Now that you are older, I dropped the name so as not to embarrass you. But that is what you were called. I was such a naive mom. I had no idea what I was doing. But above all else, know that I love with all my heart. You were my first. As my first, I tended to make more mistakes with you. And I was more scared. I can’t help but laugh at how I thought I “broke” you when I gave you a bath that was too cold. I’ll explain that one later and not in public. Or the time I accidently shut the door, or almost shut the door, on your foot. I panicked and called the ER. The nurses laughed at me and explained that as long as there was no swelling you’d be alright. And you were.
I know without a doubt you have something great in store for your life. The potential is all there. I hope I am able to prepare you with all you need. First, you are very intelligent. I don’t know many other 8 year olds that could read Harry Potter books two through seven in just over a month on their own. Your grades in school thrill me. Always straight A’s. Even in math. I’m glad you finally realized that you could do it.
You see, there is something special about you. You are VERY stubborn. And while that is a challenge to me at times, what I know is that when you make your mind up to do something, you will get it done. As long as I can guide you to put your efforts in the right direction, you will be fine. In fact, that is one of the most important lessons I hope I can teach you. You have the ability. And when you have the determination, you can be anything and do anything you decide to do.
You have a big heart. You love people and could make friends with a stick if you decided to. Just remember to always be kind. Think about what others need and want and consider that when you make your decisions. Remember – be true to yourself, but in doing so, don’t trample over the feelings of others. If you can get that straight, you will succeed in life.
I don’t know what you will be when you grow up. But I know whatever it is, you have the potential to change and improve the lives of many people. Why am I so sure? Because you do love people. Because you, at the core, are very caring. Because you are intelligent and capable of persevering until you see a thing accomplished. And because sometimes, without me even saying so, you realize that something you’ve done is wrong and you tell me about it. You even have a habit of realizing things that some adults don’t even get and learning a lesson from it. Like about waiting in life, in standing up for others and in loving your brothers.
I want you to know I am proud of you. I love you. I always will. You are special to me more than I could describe in this simple blog post. And, I’m grateful to be your mom.
Love always,
Mom
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