Dear Jack,
Happy birthday! Today you are 17! Although you have basically been telling me you are 17 all school year...particularly when I express concern about letting you go do something. You seem to want so desperately to be independent and grown. The feeling of you pulling away the past few years has been palpable and hard for this mother’s heart to accept. But I know that is what parenting is…trying to raise your kids so they can go out into the world on their own to contribute to society.
You have already proven yourself to be a hard worker. You currently work for a commercial landscaping company and spend long, hard days under the brutal Texas sun, but you never complain.
You are so considerate, always thanking me for making dinner and asking me about my day. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and awareness. You are also kind to your little brother, who is not very little anymore.
I have always worried that you internalize negative thoughts or comments and don’t seem to believe or see the positive things people say and feel about you. This past year, there have been some significant bumps in the road...all part of growing up, but still difficult to navigate. I like to journal my thoughts and feelings on the Notes app on my phone, and I recently wrote one about you that I want to include here in your birthday letter:
“This chapter of life we are in is a difficult read.
But I want you to know…
I love you when you are angry.
I love you when you are lost.
I love you when you are unrecognizable.
I love you.
Always.”
Jack, the day you were born was one of the happiest days of my life. You are such an integral part of our family. I love you so very much, and I am proud to call you my son.
Happy birthday, sweet boy.
Love,
Mom
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