November 1, 2023
Dear Alex,
I have been writing letters to you since before you were born. For 18 years, I have expressed my love, pride, and hopes for you through these letters. I can’t believe I am writing a letter for you to read at your Senior Retreat.
When I picture you in my mind, I see a baby with fat cheeks and huge brown eyes. I see a toddler in a Spiderman costume. I see a boy playing in the ocean, shooting hoops in the driveway, and doing flips on the trampoline. But now when I look at you, I see an amazing young man. One who is a good friend, a capable and diligent student, and a loyal and loving son and big brother who truly lives by the motto Family First. And if you ever doubt yourself, take a moment to see yourself through my eyes, and you will be reminded that you truly are a gift to this world.
It has been a busy fall of essay writing and submitting applications. I know you are anxiously awaiting decisions as you get ready for the next stage of your life, but promise me that you will enjoy your Senior Year. The past 6+ years at Gilman have been a time of change, challenges and accomplishments. Celebrate each of these and the experiences yet to come as you approach graduation.
One more request, and I know this may sound cheesy, but cherish the moments you have with us, your family, this year. Because no matter where you land next fall, we will always be your home. So promise to save us some Friday nights for Family Movie Nights!
I love you with all my heart 💗,
Mom
….to be continued on your 18th birthday
December 10, 2023
Alex,
The above letter was a surprise and was read to you at your Senior Retreat. And while the letter itself may have been a surprise, I am sure my words were not. You know how much I love you. Actually, you know that I love you, but I don’t think you could ever really know how much. Over 18 years of letters and I never could truly put into words just how much my heart loves you.
The moment you made me a mom, I knew I would never be the same. It was as if my purpose for living was made clear to me. In those early morning hours of December 10, 2005, I knew that you would forever be “my person.” And now in what feels like a blink of an eye, here we are, 18 years later. And I am so proud.
Even though you are 18 and all grown up, I will always be your mom. You will always be my baby boy. I am here for you forever. But I hope, in some ways, I have done my job and given you the tools you need to go out into this world and make it a better place. And if you ever falter, just remember Gilman’s motto “in tuo lumine lumen.” Always know that in your light, we see the light. You are the light of my life, and now is your time to shine that light for the world to see.
I could never love another human more,
Mom
