Happy First Birthday Son!

I wrote this as a letter to my son, but decided to share parts of it that express how I feel as a father.
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My son, this is the first letter I’ve attempted to write you, and I must say your mother is brilliant for suggesting it. Her heart is always on your well being and happiness...

I continue to be amazed at how well you handle the turmoil of large social events and new situations which cause most children to feel anxious and over stimulated. You have such a presence of strength and inner calmness about you...

I know I'm biased, but both Ann and I have been struck with the strong impression that you are one of Heavenly Fathers choice children and that there are great works for you to accomplish in this life. I couldn’t put my finger on it at first, but when I told your mother that I have a deep respect for you, (which seemed odd as you were an infant who could do little more that eat, drink, and process) she immediately agreed and said she felt the same way. I may not remember you, but my spirit knows your spirit, and I’m honored to be your father in this life.

You are such a blessing in our lives son. I’m a young Dad, a new Dad, but I’ll tell you now what my parents told me. You will not know, until the day you hold your own child in your arms, how much I love you. To be honest, I was taken back by it, as each day my capacity to love grew to new heights...

I’m not perfect and I’ll make mistakes, but know that I will always cherish you, I would die for you and I can think of no greater reward than to stand before my God and be able to tell him I was a good husband and father. This is my greatest hope and my desire.

There will be days (particularly in your teens), when you tell me you hate me and feel much anger toward me. Yes, this will break my heart, but only for a moment, for I know what it’s like to be a teenager and such moments will pass. O and while I’m on the topic, I should warn you that I will never tolerate disrespect towards your mother. I love her deeply and you are very blessed to have a mother who loves and cares for you so deeply...

Well, this doesn’t quite seem like a first birthday letter does it? You’ll get use to that with me. I don’t always say a lot, but there’s a lot going on beneath the surface of your old man. How I wish I could take a peak into the future and see you become the man you are meant to be.

Happy Birthday Son,
Love Dad