“It goes by so fast,” they said, each time they saw us together, mother and child. And I didn’t believe them.
But in hindsight it’s obvious that they were right.
And while I admittedly haven’t enjoyed every moment with you, you’ve provided me with countless moments of joy.
When I cradled you in my arms for the very first time, your dark, dewy eyes gazing into mine.
When that first smile graced your beautiful rosebud lips, causing my own lips to turn upwards in response.
When your voice cried out for “mama” for the first time, my heart captivated by the fact that you recognized me as yours.
When you sneak into bed with me in the wee hours of the morning, your head nestling into my chest.
When your voice fills the entire house in cheerful song, your zest for life infectious.
When you leave homemade cards scattered about, evidence of your love for me written in glitter and glue.
When your hand clutches mine in the face of uncertainty, your emotions gripping my heart.
When you whisper your secrets into my ear, trusting that I will keep them safe.
When you ask for bedtime snuggles and I know it’s me who snuggles you best.
When you hug me and kiss me and wrap your gangly limbs around me. When you invite me into your world, even after I’ve mistakenly declined the invitation. When you grow continuously and bless me with another day full of you.
These are moments of joy. And while they seems like small moments, they are big gifts that stretch my heart bigger than I thought possible.
It was just yesterday that we looked into each other’s eyes for the first time. And today, you are suddenly seven years older.
Your existence has brought purpose to mine. And so much more love than I could have ever imagined. Joy fills your heart and gushes from your mouth and you’ve surrounded me with pure goodness.
So on your birthday, while you’re tearing open piles of presents, remember that you are a gift.
Your voice, a source of delight.
Your laughter, a source of life.
Your optimism, a source of hope.
Your shimmering eyes, a source of light.
You are joy, child. You are a gift. And I wish for you to remember that on your birthday and every day. For your presence has become the greatest present I have ever been given.
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