What I have to give

My precious little boy,

Life is hard work, my love. Very hard work. Sometimes you get to experience beauty, sometimes incredible joy. Sometimes you may feel intense sorrow, and sometimes you'll want to just throw in the towel. There is one guarantee though-life takes work.

I don't mean work as a job or career, although that's pretty much a necessity. I mean work as in effort, attitude and perseverance. And if I could give you one bit of encouragement it would be this-it's worth it. It's worth your effort--it's worth the work.

Right now you're tucked away snug in my belly, and you make your presence known...well, often throughout the day. I actually appreciate it, as much as it is painful sometimes, because at least I know you're okay. Lately, I've been thinking often of what you'll be like, what your personality will be, how different you'll be from your brother. I've also been thinking of how I can best prepare you for life. I won't lie to you, it's really hard sometimes. But I will do everything I can to make sure you do okay in life. You should know though, that at some point it's up to you. I can teach you, and train you, and love you with all that's in me. But at some point you'll have to do it on your own.

For now though, I'll give you all that I have. I will give you every ounce of love that I can muster. I will give you patience until I break, and then I'll go back and try again. I'll give you safety, comfort, a family that loves you beyond your little baby understanding. And I'll give you all of me. I'm not perfect by any means, but I try the very best I can. And I won't give up on you. No matter your struggle, no matter your hardship. I will always love you.

So when, or if, you read this later on, remember that the things you work the hardest for, those are usually the things that bring you the most joy and fulfillment. You are that to me my love. You are that to me.

Love,
Mom