I wrote this letter to my grandson when he was born and published it as a newspaper column in The Daily News, Batavia, NY.
Dear Joey,
I thought about using your formal name, but this is how my Uncle Bob started his letter to me when I was born fifty-nine years ago. Of course, I could not read the letter then, but I have gotten it out from time to time over the years.
When I was born, the world was in the middle of a war involving most of the large countries. Fortunately that ended. We have had some smaller wars over the years. Two years ago, we started a new millennium and
everyone hoped for a new beginning with peace in the world. Unfortunately
it has remained easier for people to hate than to love each other.
I thought about this yesterday when you were born. You were surrounded by
love all day long. You were the most beautiful boy I have ever seen, and
the most peaceful, at least until you got hungry.
All of the people who love you have gone through hard times which I will let them tell you about when the time comes. All of them have worked hard to be at peace and to have love fill their hearts, which they now share with you.
I know your mother has worked hard to be at peace and will have much to
teach you about how to be successful in life. Your father will be able to
teach you the joy of music, which has often brought peace to my heart. Your
sister jumped for joy when you were born and will be there to show you the
ropes as you grow up. Like your sister, your brother had the unusual
privilege of participating in your parents' wedding and I am sure he will be there whenever you need him. When you are growing up, brothers and sisters can sometimes seem like a pain. As you get older, you will come to appreciate them and find out they really care about you if you let them be part of your life.
There are many other people who love and care about you, some your
relatives, and some friends of your parents. If I could have one wish for
you, it would be that you would always be surrounded by the love I saw
around you yesterday and that those of us who love you could protect you
from the hard times which all of us eventually grow through.
I know the hardest thing for me as a parent has been to watch my children struggle with hard things in their lives, especially when I did not know how to help them. I do know it is easier to get through hard times when you know you are loved. It is quite clear that you are well loved. We will all do our best to love you no matter what you have to face in life. I hope all of us who love you now can be there for you whenever you need us.
What a beautiful letter for a lucky little boy! I know he will always be surrrounded by love. Lucky little boy to have you for his Grandpa Joe.
Love,
Ann
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Dear Joey,
