"Our children are living messages we send to a time and place we will never see."
... I think this includes nephews, too.
Last weekend, he and I went to a Native American celebration at a nearby park. He was very excited about this latest adventure, and reminded me repeatedly that his great-great-great somebody was "100% Indian." I listened to the enthusiastic pride in his voice, and replied, "You know, Buddy, that means you're a warrior yourself. That means you work hard for the things that matter, and you don't give up." As we drove the long road to the park, I pressed on,"You know, Buddy, one of the things I admire most about you is your loyalty. You are a good friend. You have a gift for looking out for people. That one trait will serve you well in life, if you are a good friend."
Out of the corner of my eye, I could tell he was listening, and grinning a little.
From the moment he was born, he's had to work harder than most. He's my inspiration, and if I could give him a world without any more pain or disappointment, I would.
Be well.
