A letter to my Son: Happy 7th Birthday

What was life like before you, I don’t want to know… My Dearest Son, today, July 12, 2010 is your birthday and I want the world to know what an amazing little boy you are. It also marks the day that I began a new life. You transformed me from a woman into a mother. You allowed me to take a new breath and exhale it with new meaning. You gave me the greatest give of all – true, unconditional love.

The day I went into labor was frightening. Fear not of the pain.. Fear of the responsibility that came along with being your parent. I could have held you in my womb forever and been content but then the test of life began. I was given the privilege to be your mom and it was now my sole responsibility in life to protect you, to teach you, then to set you free. I was terrified. I did not want to fail you. And then I heard your cry… your new born voice overwhelmed my soul with joy. Your smell awakened my senses. Your touch made me come alive. I remember the day you were born, the day we first met, as if it were yesterday. I looked into your deep dark eyes and you stared back at me with pure love. I was amazed by your tiny face, your tiny hands, your tiny feet. How could something so small invoke a love so grand. You stared back at me as if you already knew… I was your mama and you were my boy. I was hypnotized by your being. You were the most amazing creature I had ever seen. And it was at that very moment I knew my fears of failure didn’t matter because… love would conquer all. Justin, the bond that we share can never be replaced. You are my first born, my son, and my world. You taught me what humility truly is, how to strive for the greatest, and how to always look for hope. You gave me purpose, strength and ambition. You gave me wealth of love, passion for life and the courage to dream. You gave me the COURAGE….to…DREAM. As your mother I still make mistakes and I appreciate your forgiveness as we travel this life together. I can only hope that I make you nearly as proud as you make me. As you grow into your seventh year of life I want you to know that I love you more than life itself. And that love grows stronger every day that passes. You are the most amazing being I have ever known. Those who enter your circle will become that much better of a person simply for knowing you. The pride that I feel when I watch you live life can be heard from my heart to the heavens above. Your smile is enlightening. Your laughter makes me feel at peace. The sound of your voice is a constant reminder that I am the luckiest mother in the world. You will be someone amazing. And I will always be your biggest fan. I believe in you and I am so proud to be your mom. You and your sister complete me. Happy Birthday my child. Always remember… Life is full of amazing things. Always take a minute to smell the flowers by your feet. Feel the Sun on your face. Let the Rain cleanse your soul. Love with all that you have. Laugh with every breath. Live with purpose. Fight for your dreams. Reach for the Stars, Moon and Sun… Believe in you… cause I do. And remember, that I will always be here… right by your side… cheering you on. Love always & forever, Mom