Thank You

Dear Son,

On this sunny Friday morning, my heart swells as I realize something monumental . . . that is this: I need to thank you. My previous letter was about some things I may teach you - things you may learn from me. To my surprise, I realize today just how much you are already teaching me.

You are so happy . . . so happy just to "be". Just to wake up every day. Each morning, I awaken to the sound of your laughter . . . well, some mornings, it's just your smile - but either way, your happiness is undeniable. You don't bother to cry in order to wake me, you seem content just to lie there and "coo" - with only your hands to entertain you - and entertain you they must, because your smile is bigger than any I've seen, lighting the room way before the sun ever peeks out of bed. You can't communicate to me yet your wants, needs, thoughts . . . and yet, somehow - with that simple, mostbeautifulthingiveseen smile of yours . . . you do. You tell me goodmorning, you tell me you slept well, you thank me for feeding you, and keeping you dry. Even now, as I changed you, then lept from bed to key these thoughts to this unsuspecting keyboard - you lie in bed . . . laughing and talking to yourself . . . as if to tell me, "go ahead mom - I know you have something you need to take care of." I wonder if you also know, its all for you.

When that face of yours lights up to the sound of my voice each day . . . when you give me recognition letting me know you've realized I'm awake . . . well, it warms the farthest, coldest parts of my soul . . .

For that son, I thank you.