Today You Are Seventeen

Seventeen years have passed since you, my sweet boy, were born. The time has flown by much too fast and I sometimes wish I could relive this time with you, the happiest 17 years of my life.

You have brought me great joy, my darling boy. You have helped me through family crisis, deaths, broken friendships and unrealized dreams.

At first, you were not aware that you were consoling me. You would simply climb into my lap, wrap your little arms around my neck and nestle there. You could not feel my blood pressure lower, my heart lift and my tears disappear. You were simply there to be with Mama. But as the years have passed, and you have grown, you have sought me out with the intent to give ease when things have gone awry, or I am disappointed, hurt or sick.

Your method of comforting is different now: you will put your arm around me, give me a hug, and proceed to tell me how wonderful I am, how I can do it, how I can get through whatever it is that is happening because I am so strong. Your words are wise and soothing, and you sometimes make me think that you are 37 instead of 17. You amaze me!

Your dedication to your music is inspirational. You are excelling in guitar and making quick progress on the piano. I love listening to you play, especially when I am writing. It relaxes me, makes me happy, makes me so proud of my beautiful son.

Your teachers and peers respect and like you. You are known for your courteous attitude, gentleness and cheerful personality. People like to be around you and be a part of your life. I cannot blame them. I feel the same way.

You are kind to your friends, welcoming them when you would rather be alone. You are always there to reach out when one of them is in pain, offering your sage advice, any help you can provide and your friendship. I am sure that all of them realize, as I do, just how priceless your friendship is.

Today you are 17 my love. Today we celebrate the luckiest day in my life: your birthday.

I love you,

Mama

©2009 Debra Shiveley Welch

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