My dearest boy,
Who are you? Who is this young man standing before me each day--no longer a boy, yet not quite a man? Some days I hardly feel like I know you. Your awareness of the world around you is so mature--political humor, fascination with all things entertaining, a social schedule, responsibility. I'm in awe of your thoughtfulness, amused by your humor, grateful for your strength, and annoyed by your independence. You're not my baby, not even my little boy. When did that happen? Can it really have been FOURTEEN years?
My concerns for you grow with each passing year. Will you walk with the Lord faithfully, or will you abandon Him? Will you have to learn lessons the hard way by suffering the pain of poor choices, or will you be an obedient leader who enjoys the blessings of that life? Will you love your family, especially your wife, or will the weaknesses and absences in your upbringing show through there? I am more and more aware of how little time I have left to teach you, train you, counsel you, and guide you. The weight of this realization presses down on me.
Not that it is all bad. You have your faults, and most days drive me nuts, but I do so enjoy you! You are fun, and funny. You are opinionated, and I love to debate issues with you now. You show so much wisdom one moment, and act like a foolish young man (which you are entitled to do!) the next. I love it that you talk to me. You tell me when you are mad, when you are irritated, you can tell me you love me even when your anger is justified. You are sensitive to my feelings (sometimes). You are in some ways protective of me, although it is my prayer that you know you are not fully responsible for me.
Another thing that has been fun is to see your unique interests develop. You love music, especially fast music, but it has to have a melody. You love drama and acting. You love being with friends, even if they want to do something you don't exactly love doing (you camped at the beach for a friend you really like!).
I worry about you son, because I am your mom. I have invested so much in you, and I love you so very much. At the same time, you are a great kid. You can work very hard, and do a great job at whatever you take on.
I hope you know how treasured you are. I hope you have a wonderful day today.
Happy birthday.
Love, Mom
1 comment:
I WATCH JOSH EACH SUNDAY THAT HE GETS IN THE SANCTUARY BEFORE YOU AND GATHERS HIS BROTHERS UP OR WHEN HE SITS IN A PEW CLOSE TO YOU. HE IS SO GROWN UP AND REMINDS ME SO MUCH OF BUD. IT IS REALLY A JOLT TO REMEMBER THAT HE HAS GROWN SO MUCH AND WON'T BE A KID MUCH LONGER. BE PROUD OF HIM, YOU'VE DONE A GOOD JOB WITH HIM. HE KNOWS WHAT YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH AND WILL PROTECT YOU FROM ANYTHING. I CAN SEE IT IN THE TILT OF HIS JAW AND THE LEANING OF HIS HEAD. YOU HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR FROM HIM FOR THE FUTURE. GRAMA KATE
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