A Letter to My Son

Atlanta, GA

January 25, 2020

“This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” – Matthew 3:17

NB: My 15 year-old son, David, is on a retreat this weekend to prepare for his Catholic Church Confirmation. We were asked to provide letters of affirmation that were read this morning. Mine is below.

David,

You provide many reasons for a parent to be proud. You are diligent, conscientious, and empathetic. Like many young men, you have ideas about where you want to go, and I have no doubt you will get there. But I am most pleased that even if you change direction or chart a new course, it will be with a moral compass that remains intact.

You have always loved people, and the feeling has always been mutual. And why not? You are smart, engaging, and have wide-ranging interests and talents that help fertilize common ground. You are insightful and charming, and your sparkling wit is a beacon that guides and attracts a crowd.

Your smile is infectious, your personality irresistible. From early age, your persistence in tasks and your sensitivity to others has won plaudits from teachers, the admiration of your friends, and appreciation from their parents, as well as from your own.

The feelings, cares, and concerns of others inevitably become yours. You are willing and eager to share your thoughts, talent, and time with family, friends, or strangers who suffer pain, illness, or want. Your concern for others is genuine, and your actions on their behalf sincere. Your mere presence lifts spirits, as it so frequently raises mine.

Almost from Baptism, you have taken your Catholicism seriously. The world moves fast, and offers easy distractions. But you never forget the Eternal focus around which these diversions swirl, and that they too often obscure. When tossed about by inevitable tempests, you cling to Christ as a steady anchor, your reliable port in the storm.

And you have always been eager to help guide others to shore. I recall you preparing several years ago for religious education classes, not only to enhance your own understanding, but to facilitate that of other kids to ensure they were ready for First Communion. You have lit many a candle and said many a prayer for the health, success, and souls of those who subsequently benefited by your devotion.

You certainly have your own challenges, but always face them with determination and dignity. You do not allow ailments to become crutches, nor failures to weaken resolve. You always retain a sense of perspective and appreciate your blessings, while understanding most people do not share in them. But you are always more than willing to share yours.

As you approach Confirmation, I reflect how quickly your childhood has passed, and how pleased I am at the man you are becoming. All parents hope their children measure up to expectations they have set. I of course do as well, and am certain you will. In many respects, you already have.

But I also praise God, and wonder at His ways, that He could think me a worthy father to such a remarkable son as you.

I love you, David.

Dad