Dear Kid Saturday

Dear Kid Saturdays at Cutest Kid Ever

I just met another wonderful Mom who runs a blog, called Cutest Kid Ever. She sent out a tweet asking other Moms to participate in a Dear Kid Saturday. I think it is a great idea. Thanks! Here is my Dear Kid Saturday post.

Dear Son,

Today, I was telling someone else about how proud I was of you. But, it is important to tell you. Often, I forget to tell you how proud I am of your accomplishments. That is going to change.

I am proud of the way you have handled the medical and physical changes in your life. When I look back at the pictures of you as a young boy; how athletic and energetic you were. It is hard for me to accept that those days are the past, and we may never get them back.

I have one particular memory that stays with me always. I remember when you were in junior firefighters, and the older men had that joke to put all the firefighting gear on the kids and see if they could walk down the fire station hall. I remember how each kid tried and never made it more than a couple of steps. Then you timidly raised your hand to try. Everyone knew you were a big kid, but no one thought you could do it either.

They loaded you up. Boots, full uniform, helmet and oxygen tank. For a second, you looked like you would topple over. But slowly, ever so slowly, you walked the entire hall and back.

Not a sound could be heard the whole time.

I started crying, wishing I had brought my camera, and as the whole fire station meeting hall erupted in applause, I knew then, that nothing would ever stop you.

Today, I feel that same feeling. Even as you hobble with the brace on that bad ankle. Even as you plop down in a chair, tired from the slightest exertion. I am proud of you.

You aren't the athlete and junior firefighter anymore. Today, you have taught yourself Flash animation, gaining respect from much older animators online. You are the friend everyone counts on in your chat rooms. You make one little girl feel very special even though you have never laid eyes on her.

Regardless, of what comes; sickness, disability, more surgery, I know you will overcome. You will carry whatever weight God places on you. Slowly, but surely, you will make it across whatever road is in front of you.

Mommy loves you and is so proud to have you as my son.

Love,

Mommy