Today marks your 8th birthday. As you prepare to transition through your childhood, I feel it’s important to express the depth of my love for you before you reach those tumultuous teenage years when you might not feel the same.
To be honest, I never really envisioned myself as a parent. I was indifferent about having kids until I met your father. He cooked me pancakes, and I realized he was different—he listened, he made me laugh, and he had this charming smile. Before I knew it, love blossomed, and two years later, here you are.
You embody the best parts of both of us. You are sensitive and loyal, you have a wonderful sense of humor, and your creativity shines brightly. You’re a bundle of joy with your own unique quirks—athletic, determined, and beautifully you.
In our youth, your father and I were filled with trepidation. How would a baby fit into our lives? How could we give you the love and support we sometimes lacked? We certainly don’t get it right all the time, and there will be moments when we let you down. But please know, it’s never out of a lack of love—it’s just part of being your imperfect parents.
Like that time your dad jokingly said Jesus was more like a zombie than the son of God. I know that might have upset you, and honestly, sometimes he drives me crazy too. Remember when he gave me an iTunes gift card for Valentine’s Day? Or how he leaves a single glass in the sink after I’ve just cleaned up?
And what about that Girl Scout trip to New York City? I can still feel the weight of that moment when I yelled at you in front of your friends and dragged you along like you were three years old. I was just panicking because I couldn’t find you. It’s a memory you often bring up, and I know it hits me with a guilt bomb every time.
We are your parents, and yes, we will mess up. We will:
- Hurt you
- Make you cry
- Disappoint you
- Not fulfill every wish
- Likely not cover your college expenses
- Continue to push healthy eating
- Raise our voices
- Control the TV time
- Urge you to be resilient
- Need your help in our old age
- Stumble in being the adults you need.
Your father and I aren’t wealthy investors; we’re dreamers. Our aspirations may not fill our bank account, but they fill our hearts. We believe in nurturing you with love instead of material wealth. We hope you grow up understanding the difference between the two.
By laying bare our shortcomings, we hope to cushion the impact when you eventually seek therapy as an adult.
More than anything, we are your biggest fans. We stand by you as unwavering supporters. You can confide in us without fear of judgment, and we promise to nurture your spirit. We will guide you through the unfairness of life and privilege, and will always remind you that you are loved unconditionally.
As you step into this new year, know that our love for you is as strong today as it was the moment you were born. We are proud of who you are becoming, and we marvel at your capacity to love us back. You are our shining star, our little dream.
Live life to the fullest—never take a moment for granted. Stand strong against negativity and strive to be everything you aspire to be.
With all our love,
Mom & Dad