My Son.

My Son will be graduating Elementary School today, and will move to a much larger conglomerative Middle School.

After my Son turned two, he was still not speaking. Concerned as he was my first child, I enlisted the help of an early interventionist to come to the house and get him on track.

Soon we couldn't get him to stop talking.

In Preschool, my Son was initially suspected to be Autistic, it turns out however, he was, in fact, Dyslexic.

After many years of receiving special services from the school district, not only had he actually met his goals, he was no longer to eligible to get the services.

It was also during this time, that it was discovered that his Achilles Heels were much too short. He had to have custom leg braces made. Braces that he would need to wear for years at night to lengthen his heels in order for him to walk properly.

Even though they were uncomfortable, he wore them every night, without complaint.

Now, as I look at this handsome young man, who is nearly as tall as me, I see all that he has overcome already, on his short time on Earth.

He has not only superseded any expectations I have ever had of him, but he has blown them out of this World.

The little boy I used to watch Yo Gabba Gabba with, is now someone with whom I share incredible academic and intellectual conversations.

At ten, he was already a published author.

I remember crying at that Preschool meeting where I was told he just didn't seem to be reaching the bar.

Was falling short of the mark.

Now I cry because he has crushed it.

I have no idea what I have done to have such a thoughtful, sweet, and incredibly intelligent boy in my house, but I wouldn't know what to do without him.

My Son.

His helpfulness and emotional awareness put me in awe, daily.

His brilliance, inspiring.

I see the brightest light in his future, one that, nothing has been able to put out.

For every challenge he has come across, he has conquered.

Slayed.

That little boy who wanted to know everything about Dinosaurs is still there.

But now, he has added Investment Banking, History, and so many other subjects to his list.

An Honor Student at school.

A treasure at home.

I love my Son deeply.

So on this first of many graduations, I applaud you, my sweet L, and I wish you continued success and love.

I know both of my parents are looking down beaming at their first grandchild and crying tears of pride and admiration.

They both adored you.

We all do.

With all my heart.

Xoxo,

C.

P.s. Though the days be long, the years are short, cherish every moment of your children.