Major is Eight

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Dear Major,

Cheers to 8 years! My deep and fierce son, what a joy it always is to watch you grow up more and more into the little man you’ve always been at heart. I remember when you were born, staring down into your eyes and seeing them so full of knowledge and experience. There was such a depth to your quiet thoughts from day one. I still love watching you think. I wish I could be privy to the worlds that exist in your mind, and the adventures you dream up. You hate whenever I ask you what you’re thinking about (“don’t ask me that, Mom!”) I hope that one day you share more of it with the world, so all of us can finally know all of the colors you’re painting with daily.

This year, you have stepped even more firmly into who you are. Always experimenting and challenging yourself to grow and learn in every corner of your vast array of interests. From your sports super-fandom (you will watch a game of literally ANYTHING, and be so into it!) to your recent tour of New York City theaters, and clubs (as you follow your favorite performers’ schedules)– I love seeing you step into your power and purpose. This year for your birthday, you asked for: a new suit, a 5 foot skeleton, hockey and football trading cards, binders for your hockey and football cards, and a Beetlejuice costume (with the wig).

This gift list alone is the perfect example of how dynamic you are as a little human! I know whatever path you choose to do one day, it will be filled with enthusiasm and the drive that is apparent even at just 8 years old. Both your brother and sister are so deeply drawn to you and inspired by you. Our whole family looks up to you, in fact. Your inner confidence, sturdy understanding of yourself, and your unbreakable spirit are all qualities that push us to be our best selves, too.

But for all of the pragmatism, sparkle, and focus that is a cornerstone of your personality these days– perhaps my favorite part of you is your sweetness. You don’t let too many people see it, and keep the softer side of yourself reserved for your nearest and dearest. But, the real ones know that you are without a doubt one of the most darling little boys in existence. Your sparkly smile melts hearts. You freely cry happy tears, and break down with overwhelmed joy when you meet your heroes. When you hear about anything bad happening to a vulnerable person (or animal), your eyes well up. You feel SO deeply, and I hope that never changes.

I believe you carry a deeper understanding of the world from your past life experiences. Now and then, on a totally normal day, I’ll snuggle with you at bedtime and you’ll turn to me and whisper “Thank you for this beautiful life, Mama.” It gets me every time, because I know you really mean it.

I simply adore you. You delight me, not just as your Mother, but as another person in the world sharing space and time with you. You are so fun and fabulous to be around, and you make our whole family more special than we could ever be without you. Gathering on the couch together as you show us your new favorite musical number, or play us a new song you’re obsessed with, are core memories I’ll keep for all of time.

I can’t wait to watch how you change the world, and inspire others. You have such a beautiful wish for your life. I know you’ll reach it. Keep dancing, keep exploring, pushing and navigating, and cartwheeling across the balance beam of life. Keep that squishy, incandescent heart filled to the brim. Happy birthday, beautiful boy! You deserve all the celebrations!

Yours always,

Mama.