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.

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(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