Our son Xavier turned 18 today, thus taking his steps on a journey that began long before he was born. I say our son, as he was as much that to you as you were his mom to him for whom he cared so lovingly then and ever so ardently even now. You would be proud - oh, who am I kidding, YOU ARE - watching over our children all these years. Your irrepressible presence, unmistakable touch, loving grace making our lives unflappable in times of indecision. I will forever honor you for that and so much more.
Along with his brother, may he never know that he single-handedly saved his Dad's life back then, or that I hide in his light even today. Yet I never ever want to forget the darkness from which he helped rescued me. They were the light that chased away the shadows and revealed the lies that tried to tell me that I was all alone.
I renew my promise to you, to him, to myself, to protect, and guide, and remind him who he is, and what he will be to us all. We love you, son.