Dear Man-Cub

Today, you turn twenty-six. 

That, alone, is mind-blowing. Add to it the fact that you are now a married man and I am just about undone.

Years and years ago, I wrote a birthday post for you, in which I said that; on the day of your wedding, this is the image that I would see...

...and I was not wrong. 

On August 10th, as you shared your vows with your best friend, you were just about the most handsome groom that I have ever seen, but, you were still my little boy. One day, Lord willing, you will understand what I mean when I say that.

 

It's been such a privilege to watch you grow from a child into a man. We are so proud of you and of the choices you have made. You and Shanti are going to make your way in this world and, you will have successes and you will make mistakes. You will encounter challenges and heartache, joy and triumph, happiness and sorrow, and, all of the wonderful and terrible things in between; I know that you will handle it all with courage, grace, and humor.

I'll let you in on a secret that I have learned over the last decade: being the parent of adults is, in many ways, harder than being a parent of an infant, toddler, adolescent, etc.

It's hard to watch your grown child navigate the world, no matter how well they do it. I just want you to know that we are here when you need us, and we will be cheering from the sidelines when you don't.

You and your sister are the very best parts of your dad and me, and we could not be more proud. So, happy birthday, Cub! 

Love, Mom.