Dear child of mine,
Our days are busy and full of hurry and noise. In the race to keep up with life’s demands, your heart can be left behind. I want to take a quiet moment to tell you once more why you’re so, so loved.
I love your generous spirit.
You’re lavish with second, third, and thirty-seventh chances when I let you down. You share an unlimited supply of humor and creativity that brings our house to life. Whether your hugs and smiles, your belongings, or your time and personal space, you give what you’ve got to brighten my day.
I love your example.
You remind me to be curious and ask questions. I’m challenged to use my imagination and dream big. You never stop learning and trying new things. You’re observant to notice the miraculous details in what’s around us. Instead of a critical spirit, you see the best in other people. While this world finds worth in a frenzy of productivity, you show me the value of fun. Of rest. Of a good story and Saturday morning pancakes. Because of you, I remember what’s most important.
I love your authenticity.
Instead of masking your emotions, you cry on my shoulder. You’re bold to admit your fears and declare your opinions. When facing a tough challenge, you don’t let pride keep you from asking for help. You ask the hard questions that most of us are too timid to speak out loud. You laugh loud, play hard, and show fierce loyalty to your friends. You’ve granted yourself permission to be you.
I love what you take away from me.
Because of you, I’ve lost the freedom to be selfish and make life all about me. Parenting you takes away my arrogant spirit that once thought I had all the answers. You take away my self-sufficiency so I pray for you with all I’ve got. I gave up my old image and identity to be known as your family. You took my narrow life, blew it wide open, and made it beautiful.
I love the One I see in you.
In the intricate details of your mind, your eyes, and your personality, I see the handiwork of God. He proves his Word true over the “wonderful work” that is you:
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)
Made in God’s image, you are part of his creation that displays his power and nature for all to see. (Romans 1:20) Your forgiving heart is a mirror of God’s grace to everyone. (Colossians 3:13)
Your creativity reflects Jesus, who made all things. (John 1:3)
Every time you show compassion, pray with simple faith, and stand up for what’s right, you inspire me to obey and follow Jesus with all my heart.
Dear child of mine, you are loved. You are my heritage and reward from God himself. (Psalm 127:3) His love for you is more “wide and long and high and deep” than you could ever comprehend. (Ephesians 3:18) Today, rest in knowing you’re enough. You’re secure. The love wrapped around you will hold you, always.
To pray for the one you love with all your heart, we offer these resources for your family:
I love this! It’s so important to look for these true, beautiful things about our children instead of what they need to change. So thankful you take time to share these thoughts and reflections!
Beautifully written! Our children can be such wonderful examples if we’ll learn from them.
This makes me want to write a letter to my toddler now!
I love what you are doing here. Your words of wisdom are a challenge to all of us who have children. I found your. Website from your “plan” on the Bible app. I am an old man with a heart for younger adults ( see menwhoconquer.com ) and six grown children, most whom are not walking with God. I’m praying I’ll find ways to express my love to each of them before my calling home. God bless you and your family.
Thank you for your kind comments, Gary. We appreciate your work to build up men’s faith. We’re sure the prayers you lift up for your children are heard and effective. Thank you again for your encouragement, and we’ll be lifting you in prayer also!
Thank you, Joanna. I appreciate your prayers for myself and for the ministry of MEN WHO CONQUER. We all need each other!