Dear Sophia,
Sixteen years ago, you delighted us all by showing up on your own schedule. You have continued to
choose your own path in every way, and it’s a pleasure to watch.
Being along for the ride is the biggest joy of my life. I am so grateful to know you as well as I do, not only because you’re my kid but because you are a truly wonderful human. Thank you for letting us in!
I am proud of all that you have accomplished this year. You have faced many fears and continue to bravely step beyond your comfort zone. It has been inspiring and a little scary for me to watch you navigate your ever burgeoning life.
You continue to be the kind of loyal friend that any person would be lucky for life to have. Your capacity for love is truly boundless. As your mom, I hate how that opens you up to more pain, but you blow me away by bravely loving in spite of the risk. It’s frickin amazing. We’ll be here for you along the way as it becomes more full of joy and of everything else.
As always, my dearest wish for you is for you to see yourself the way others see you, even just a little bit. We think you are just the coolest thing to happen, and I wish it was easier for you to see the amazing parts of being you, along with the parts that make moments difficult.
I love you, Sophia. More than I imagined possible, and you know I’ve got a great imagination.
Happy, happy birthday, Soph. I hope you feel celebrated and loved in the midst of your scheduling storm.
Love,
Mom
