A Letter To C On His Birthday

Dear C-

Today is your 20th birthday.  You're no longer a teenager - so hard to believe how quickly the time has flown.

We met you on a sunny early spring morning, five weeks before you were due to arrive.  After giving us quite a scare, you emerged into the world with red hair and a temper to match.  All my life I had wanted to be a mother, and you gave me that gift.

From the very beginning you were so full of life, curious and loving.  You never wanted to sleep because you were afraid you might miss something important. You talked early and often, bounced more than you sat, and amazed me with your questions and eagerness to know what was going on in this world.

You carried that curiosity into boyhood, and I knew I had a very special person on my hands. Empathetic, kind, smart and so very sensitive.  Your temper was still there, but you had this way of looking at me that melted me every time.  

And now here you are, almost a grown man.  All of your wonderful qualities have remained, but you've matured and mellowed into the most amazing person.  You are loyal, determined and know exactly where you are going in life. Your sense of humor, ability to choose what is right and honorable, and love for your family make my heart smile.  You remind me so much of your father, and as far as I'm concerned, there is no higher compliment I can give.

I know that my days of being your "everyday" mother are growing short, and while that makes me sad, I'm also so proud of you that sometimes l feel like my heart will burst.

As you turn 20, my advice to you is this:  Enjoy every moment.  Always listen twice as much as you speak.  Be humble but be confident.  Get up one more time than you fall down.  Keep your sense of humor and never stop laughing. Love with all you have, even if it hurts sometimes.  Whatever you are asked to do, do just a little bit more.  Respect has to be earned. Stay positive and always seek happiness.  Be brave.

All those years ago you gave me the ultimate gift when you became my son, and I want to thank you.  No matter how old you get, you'll always be my sweet little red haired boy, bouncing off the walls and talking a mile a minute.  And I wouldn't change a thing.....Love, Mom

Happy Birthday!