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Friday, February 26, 2016

Open Letter: Happy 6th Birthday-- No. 2 Son

Aloha, No. 2 Son:)

Hey, don’t roll your eyes too much! I wrote a whole series about you and your brothers on my blog (when you were younger.) I’m simply protecting your teenage years!

See what I mean :)
 

I know you’re six today, but the never-ending Internet gets confusing and I’m probably using bigger words than Ms. R. in Pre-K would suggest I use.
(I don’t mind if you read this in a year or ten—I only hope that you do, because I want you to know that I really miss you on every day that we're apart.)

Like your brothers, I’ve written open letters to them here on my blog, and like them, I can never, ever forget the day you were born.

Your Mama and I were a little worried, because we already knew you were bigger than your kuya, but it was still a shock to find you were nearly three times as big as your brother.
 

From the beginning, you were always the quiet one, the most introspective one, but gosh, Son, you never missed anything once it peaked your attention.

I will never, ever forget that when you were an infant, Mama or I would give you a bath, and then more often than not, I would steal you to my chest—because it was time to take a nap. (Of course, we both fell asleep, but shhhhh, don’t tell anyone.)

I remember thinking so many times, as you grew from an infant to toddler, and now to the young boy you are today that I am so lucky to be your Papa.
 
Life can be tough in a stroller... or not!

We’ve definitely had so many adventures, and gone on a lot of fun, field trips.

I love you so much, Son.

###

(As time goes by and 2026 rolls around… I’m talking to the older No. 2 Son when I write this….)
 

Listen, Son, don’t ever forget that we all have choices in life. I hope you can one day forgive me for leaving, and please don’t ever blame Mama for the choices I made. In fact, I want you to stay strong for Mama—and always, always keep her safe and defend her honor.

I love you so much, Son, and I’m sorry I’ve missed being there for your birthday today, but always know that your spirit burns a special place in my heart—and it’s a light that will never dim or flame out.
Even though things have changed, your laughter brightens up my day—and it always will.

Your smile is contagious—and gives me hope for the future whenever I see that glimmer in your beautiful brown eyes.

Your quiet strength, your always-listening skills, your fantastic memory, these are unique qualities I wish I had—as a grownup.

I’m not there for you every day, Son. I changed your life, and that of your two brothers, and I'm so sorry.
When you’re older, I’ll answer all your questions, I promise.

You are one of the few true loves of my life, Son, and I sincerely hope you have a very happy sixth birthday today.

And, as time passes, I hope that all your dreams will come true.
 
 

Love, Papa


 

16 comments:

Author R. Mac Wheeler said...

ah

:)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

That was beautiful, Mark. Happy birthday to your son.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

So touching. Oliver from Arrow Tv Show needs to take tips from you on setting down letters for his son to read when he's older. Things change but the love between a father and son is unbreakable. :)

Elephant's Child said...

Oh Mark. That is truly beautiful. And your love is so very, very evident. I hope he does read it, and feels that love.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Mark - it's brilliant you're writing letters to them - they'll so appreciate the stories ... and many a happy birthday ahead ... to son 2, other siblings and to the family .. Happy weekend - cheers Hilary

Jo said...

A beautiful letter to your son which I hope he reads now and in the future. Wishing him a happy birthday from me, in Canada, and many more happy birthdays to come.

klahanie said...

Hey Mazza!

A letter of love to your beloved son. Happy birthday to your son and you, good sir, are a remarkable dad! :)

Your friend,

Gazza! :)

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Happy birthday to your adorable blessing.

Debra Renée Byrd said...

This is so sweet. Happy belated birthday, #2!!

Lisa said...

So beautiful to write this to your son here. I'm sure you sent him something too, for him to have in his hands on his special day. Thanks for sharing Mark...

shadowfire said...

What a beautiful and touching entry to your son!!

*tear*

~ shadowfire ~

Drew Watts said...

Awesome 6th birthday party! I am impressed to see these photos. Last year we celebrated our niece’s 5thbirthday in such a way at one of local outdoor event space but this year she is demanding a pool party in our backyard.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Mark - you either make me cry or laugh - I'm never sure which roller coaster I'm getting on when I stop by your blog, but you always share your heart. Thank you!

SpacerGuy said...

I think its really cool preserving the timeline with these precious family photos and memories. Way better than a scrapbook.

Sandra Cox said...

Ah.
Happy BDay to the baby boy.

Susan Kane said...

Both joy and heartbreak. Well written. This is so important!

I will be posting Wed. Words at my site:)

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