Permission To Be Human

Gavin at Lake Bled in Slovenia

For two months we have lived in other people's homes, hotels, and with temporary furniture and only the clothes in our suitcases. We have said goodbye's to loved ones, friends and family, and our old lives. We have taken on a lot of change together as a family. Some unwanted change, difficult change, and with many bumps and bruises on the way.

I look at you at age 8 and I see the innocence and the sense of adventure and I wish with all my heart that you will always see life this way. I wish with all my soul that you will always be filled with this bravery to take the world and make it your bitch. If you can remember anything about this time in your life, remember how your mom told you everyday how brave and wonderful you are for believing in yourself.  Oh, how I look up to you, this is what I want you to carry all your life. 

Continue to be a risk taker, understand that the fear of failure is the worst reason to not do something. Taking risks allow our world to grow, become bigger.  Change is a constant.  Learn to be flexible, not perfect. Give yourself permission to be human, to make mistakes and learn from them, and to find passion and love in everything you do.

Yesterday, as a new third grader, you stepped onto that big new school bus with a bunch of strangers. You waved goodbye to your parents with solemn eyes, but a brave smile. You do things everyday and I look at you with envy and amazement. I am so glad you are mine and that you teach me all these things.