Teach Them What They Are

"Each second we live is a new and unique moment of the universe, a moment that will never be again And what do we teach our children? We teach them that two and two make four, and that Paris is the capital of France. When will we also teach them what they are? We should say to each of them: Do you know what you are? You are a marvel. You are unique. In all the years that have passed, there has never been another child like you." - Pablo Casals

Dear Satch,

I can't believe how much you've grown this summer: your decision to attend nature camp; riding your balance bike; and learning to swim. I promised you that I would make you a Merboy Talisman necklace when you learned to swim under water, and you did it! "Are you teary?", you asked with an impish grin.

Today is your first day of School. I can hardly believe it. You tell anyone within earshot, "I've achieved big boy status". You are so excited. Yesterday you made a list of the things you wanted to do on your first day.

We searched far and wide to find a school that would feel very much like home, so while I will miss spending our days together, I take comfort in knowing that you will be surrounded by kindred spirits. You will spend your days doing many of the same things we did together, looking for creatures, climbing trees, digging, drawing, writing and painting. You will be outside, not in a classroom. You will be free to run, to climb, to get messy...free to be you.

We thought long and hard about some small gift to give you to honor this new chapter in your life. Now that you have achieved big boy status, we presented you with your very own wrist watch. You are wild about your time piece, especially the flames on the wrist band.

As you race eagerly towards each new milestone, may you always remember to savor each moment. For me time passes much too quickly.

I love you,
Mama