Make Your Own Shadows.
Since I am stuck inside anyway, I started deleting old files on my computer, to increase storage capacity and perhaps give my computer a few more years of activity.
That’s how I found the letters that I will be posting this week. They are old, but they are relevant. And it helps me to remember my children, the way they are on the inside.
I wrote these letters with the intent that the kids could look back on themselves and see what they were really like when they were younger.
This one was written just after Dylan was accepted into the GT program, when he was in fourth grade. This meant Dylan would be going to a different school, leaving Shane in first grade at his home school.
So the first letter is to Shane.
August 18, 2010
Dearest Shane,
When Dylan was picked to go to another school, we were all very proud of him, but we were thinking of you, as well. You are the newest and only representative of the family at your school now. So I sat you down, and explained that this duty comes with a price.
“No one will be saying, ‘There goes Dylan’s little brother’ anymore,” I told you. “Now they will say, ‘There goes Shane.’”
Your back straightened up, your eyes lit up, and I thought the pride was going to burst right out of you. Yes, finally, you are getting your chance. You get to be a whole you, the person you were meant to be, and make your own shadows instead of standing in someone else’s! It is a glorious thing.
And you are going to go so far, my love. You are strong and independent and can tackle whatever comes your way, all by yourself. But when you come home, of course, we will still be there for you – in whatever way you need – and love you more than ever.
Love,
Mom