Letters to My Child: To My Son

Wirtten February 28, 2012

My son,

There are so many things I want for you when I look into your eyes. I imagine great happiness and joy exuding from you. The man of character and integrity that God has ordained you to be. The choices you will make, good and bad, and the wisdom to know the difference and learn from your mistakes.

I think of your life full of opportunity and promise...and I am taken back to the fears that come with raising a son...and even moreso raising an African Ethiopian American son. There are stigmas I can't erase. There are hurts I can't protect you from. There are generalizations that I can't keep people from making.

I hate that. I want the world for you. I look into your big brown eyes, just glowing...and I want everything to be perfect in your life.

But I know I can't give you that.

I will do everything I can to raise you to be a strong man of God. A man with character to stand up to injustices and integrity in the face of adversity. A man  who's confidence isn't shaken by racial inequalities and racist remarks. A man who turns to his Father in the face of trials and leans on His Wisdom before acting.

A man who fulfills the destiny that God laid out for him while he was still in his mother's womb. A man who, despite all odds, perseveres and stands with his head held proud.

No matter what the world may say...I am SO PROUD to be your momma. When I look into your eyes, I know I am not worthy and I am honored that God chose me.  I will do my very best to fulfill my own destiny in raising you to fulfill yours.

You are my beautiful baby boy. I love you more than words.

Love,

Momma