Dear Anderson,
You’re such a beautiful little boy. You’re innocent and sweet. Although I plan to cherish every minute with you now, I know you’ll grow up fast, becoming your own independent person.
As your dad, I’m determined to help you experience all that life has to offer. I want to see you play, grow, learn, and explore. I want to see you find meaning, develop your passions, and experience love. These are some of life’s beautiful gifts, and I’m hopeful you’ll get to experience them all.
Life, though, isn’t always easy or filled with joy. Being human means experiencing both the highs—love, laughter, and pleasure—and the lows—moments of challenge, sadness, and even times of struggle.
As you grow, you’ll be encouraged to take risks, try new things, and make new friends. Taking these steps is how we grow, but it also makes us vulnerable to setbacks. Sometimes we stumble, and the hurt may linger. Yet even these experiences can lead to greater strength and resilience.
In the past, showing struggle was often misunderstood, and people who shared their challenges were sometimes unfairly judged. But in our family, we are open about our struggles. We value honesty and the support we can offer each other. You have a family history of strength, including your Great-Grandfather, who bravely served in World War II and faced his own challenges upon returning. He didn’t talk much about it, but his journey has taught us all to value courage and honesty.
When I was 18, I faced my own difficult times, but with the support of family and friends, I grew stronger. Over time, I’ve come to understand that true freedom lies in accepting both the highs and lows of life. I’m grateful to have support systems in place and the confidence to share when I need help. You, too, will have everything you need to overcome challenges.
Anderson, I share this with you so that you know it’s okay not to be okay. You don’t have to push through alone. There is always support available. Life’s tough times are part of our journey, but we grow through them. Behind each struggle lies new experiences and highs.
I want you to embrace everything that life brings. A full life means experiencing all human emotions, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of in that. In fact, in our family, it’s something to celebrate.
With love forever,
Your Dad
- Rob Pintwala
firstsession.com
