Dear Addilyn and Josiah (and any future kids that come along),
I LOVE that right now, every person we see is a 'friend'. But, I know that someday, you'll realize not everyone is a friend. Hopefully, that lesson is far off. Someday, you are going to learn that there are mean people in this world. You are going to learn that some people hate others because they are different and hate them so much they want to hurt them. Because I know this, all I want to do is put you in a little bubble that consists of only our family and maybe, if you're lucky, a few hand-picked-by-Mommy friends. I want you to learn how to love and cherish each person around you, even those that think differently than you or that you don't get along with the best. Your Daddy and I want to be there to make everything better, always. We want to be able to kiss every boo-boo and wipe away every tear. But, we won't be able to. Someday, we're going to have to let you out of hand-holding range. We're going to have to let someone else teach you things, make your lunch, and let you meet new friends. So, our prayer is that you learn who Christ is and how much He loves you and is there for you, ALWAYS (even when you're not with us). We pray that we (along with your amazing grandparents, aunts, and uncles) teach and show you who Christ is whenever you're around us. Hopefully all of that will help you when you realize the hate that some people have in their hearts. Jesus is the only one that can make all of that better for you, my loves. He can use you to change that hate into love and kindness if you let Him. Babies, I love you more than I can ever say. I will always want to protect you from things and people that will hurt you. But, because I know I won't be able to, I pray God will. I pray He'll use those situations to help you become stronger in your faith and be great influences to the world. Thank you so much for making my life better and teaching me so many wonderful things (even when you are still so little).
I love you forever,
Mommy
Remembering Uncle Kevin who died 10 years ago in those September 11 attacks that taught Mommy what hate can do.
This song is better than my letter, you should watch it.
