From the moment we met (below!) I have always been excited to see you.
I’ve always loved you,
and have been very proud of you.
This year more than ever. You’ve been through an overwhelming amount of stress.
Though it’s been tough, you have showed your true colors: strength, determination, resilience, and good humor.
It doesn’t surprise me, though. You have always had a terrific nature – playful, easy to smile and laugh, to roll with the punches.
and you’ve always loved learning, especially science and art,
and dogs and the beach.
As you have grown, I’m glad we’ve always been pals.
I’m looking forward to all you will do with your bright, bright future.
And to more adventures together.
When you were a baby, I used to sing this song to you. I mean it as much today as I did then.
Washed the dishes and put them away
I have told you a story and tucked you in tight
At the end of your knockabout day
As the moon sets its sails to carry you to sleep
Over the midnight sea
I will sing you a song no one sang to me
May it keep you good company.
You can love whomever you will
You can travel any country where your heart leads
And know I will love you still
You can choose one special one
And the only measure of your words and your deeds
Will be the love you leave behind when you’re gone.
Some boys quiet and kind
Some race on ahead, some follow behind
Some go in their own way and time
Some women love women, some men love men
Some raise children, some never do
You can dream all the day never reaching the end
Of everything possible for you.
But seek out spirits true
If you give your friends the best part of yourself
They will give the same back to you.
You can love whomever you will
You can travel any country where your heart leads
And know I will love you still
You can choose one special one
And the only measure of your words and your deeds
Will be the love you leave behind when you’re gone.
