From an old writing notebook uncovered 10/23, written 1990.
Steve graduated from College in May 1990, just a few weeks before he and La Donna married. I wrote him this letter (from my heart but based partly on one I had read that Janice had written Charmaine) for the occasion.
Dear Steve,
As you accept your degree and step into a new relationship
with the world, we know that the apron strings to us which have been
lengthening as you've matured must soon be cut. As you have earned this
independence, you have earned much more. You have proven yourself worthy of
trust period now you are mature and dependable and ready to try your own wings,
and we are confident that your flights will be beautiful as well as purposeful.
We, your family, will observe each flight proudly, applaud enthusiastically,
and be on call for you throughout our lives.
Because we love you, we have tried to instill within you
morals that will withstand temptation; We have tried to help you develop a
sense of responsibility. Our task was an easy one, for you are by nature a
person with genuine concern and compassion. You have the ability to love
generously. Though you have brought us joy and happiness that is immeasurable,
we cannot shield you from disappointment nor guarantee all the things that we
wish for you. We have no fortune that will help you gain favor or approval in
this world. We have no easy formula for success; nor do we have a magic potion
to ward off failure. We have not even been able to provide you with unblemished
memories; for you have seen us cry faithless tears of despair, and you have
witnessed ugliness in our times of anger and weakness. You have seen the
necessity for forgiveness and beginning again in our lives and in our
relationships. But the things that we have or have not been able to give you
are insignificant compared to the things of real value in life that are all
yours in Christ Jesus. Your heavenly father, who loves you far more than we,
has riches in store beyond your and our comprehension.
We commit you now (as we committed you at your birth) to his
care as the fire of the world tests the gold of your character. We are proud of
you. We love you, and we will continue to lift you to God in our prayers daily.
With our love,
Dad and Mom
No comments:
Post a Comment