The Son is One

Dear Connor-

I'm not sure when you will be mature enough to use the internet and what it will look like at that time, so I have no idea if you will ever see this message.  In case you do, there are some things you should know.  I've assembled these thoughts here for both of us to be able to read in the future, perhaps together... and/or if ever met with a troubling time.

I am writing this note because today you turn one year old, meaning you were born just one year ago.  Of the 365 days you've spent on the planet, I've been right there with you all but one of them.  They have been some of the saddest, yet some of the happiest days of my life, in such a short span of time.  It has been a year filled with some very challenging and very informative moments that truly tested my patience and my confidence in my ability to be a good parent to you.  Conversely, there have been many memories to cherish.

In one year, you learned to crawl and walk, you learned to play with so many different toys with varying degrees of difficulty and dexterity, you've learned to laugh and smile, you've learned to cry when you're feeling alone, you've learned to communicate some emotions (although not yet with intelligible language), you've learned to reciprocate feelings, and so many skills that you've surpassed that I have already forgotten about.

There is one thing I know for sure.  Ever since I met you my life has changed dramatically for the better.  I've learned patience (still working on that...ask mom), I've learned how to help another human survive, and most importantly I really truly learned the value of unconditional love.  If I could tell you anything you didn't already know from me showing it, I guess I would say "thank you" for "teaching" me something new everyday and bringing out what I never realized I had inside of me.

Your mom and I are so proud of you and love you more than mere words can express.  I am overjoyed to have you in my life and I am honored that I get the privilege of calling you my son.  I promise I will always be there for you and I will never, ever, let you know abandonment.  I cannot wait to teach you newer skills, to watch every phase of your growth, to hold your hand, and to help mold you into a wonderful man.  Just please promise that despite your innocence you will continue to teach and guide me the same way you have in this your first.

You're an amazing little boy and I love you with all of my heart and all of my soul... forever and always.

Love, Dad