While enJOYing the buzz of meaningful conversation during the Educational Showcase last night, a young learner gingerly tugged on my arm and this dialogue followed:

• Child:  Just exactly why were you not at Miller Rally or at school on Friday?
• Me:  I flew with Mr. Van to California to see our daughter graduate from college again.
• Child:  Why is she graduating again?
• Me:  Because she wanted more school time for the work she plans to do in her future.
• Child:  Well, I missed you and you should have just written her a letter instead of going out there.  🙂

Of course, this had me thinking about what I might say in a letter to my daughter today.  Just like her lunchbox in elementary school, she’s accustomed to receiving little notes and funny cards (with monetary surprises at times) in her mailbox on a fairly regular basis (we are “note” people in our house).  She has heard me say (at least a thousand times) to “plan your work; work your plan; autograph your work with personal excellence.”  As an educator’s child, she has endured countless school programs and events, parent conferences in the grocery store, and some of the funniest supper and story time conversation imaginable.  Rachel knows her dad and I only ask and accept her personal best, no matter the endeavor…she never disappoints either.

Here’s the part you don’t fully synthesize when you meet your child for the first time:  All children enter this life free of time or worry, carrying great hope for JOY, celebration, and unconditional love.  Their delicate beginning reminds us how rich and fragile life is, that beauty is everywhere, and every personal connection has profound meaning.  Children bring great JOY and sometimes sorrow; good days and not-so-good days, but they live up to what we believe of them!  It’s true; the days of raising children are long but the years are sadly short.

So here’s hoping you write a letter to your child occasionally.  Talk about the successes, hopes, and dreams; talk about growth and lessons learned…just remember to talk!

For now, congratulations, Rachel, on completing your Master’s degree with highest honors at USC in LA (Fight on!)…oh, and your letter’s in the mail!  xoxo  🙂