Every night, before I go to sleep, I come to your room. I tuck your blankets. I give you a kiss.
Most of the time, you’re sleeping deeply. Sometimes you stir a little, then settle back. And in that moment, you are so pure it almost hurts to look at you.
I always find it a little strange when people treat turning 18 as some great milestone. You only turn 18 once, they say. But that’s true of every age. You only turn 9 once. You only turn 11 once. Every age carries its own weight, its own magic.
What we call the age of innocence isn’t a single year. It’s a way of seeing the world and it passes quietly, before you even notice it’s gone.
Don’t follow the instinct to rush through it. It’s not worth it. As your father I will help you to protect and enjoy it for as long as you can.
So take your time. Chase your dreams. Write letters to Santa. Look for the tooth fairy.
Grow up, of course, but do it slowly
Life will be long. Some of it will be hard. But right now, it is yours to enjoy.
Love and be happy. Always.
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