Different, And Yet The Same

"You don't raise heroes, you raise sons.
And if you treat them like sons,
they'll turn out to be heroes,
even if it's just in your own eyes.” 
― Walter M. Schirra, Sr.

I am the mother of three sons and one daughter.  Today is my youngest son's birthday.  It is difficult to embrace the fact that he is now 37 years old.  How can this be?  It seems like only yesterday, Matthew  ('Gift of God') was presented to me.

My son is tall, nicely built, and handsome, still smiling as he did when he was two.  He was a very peaceful child and highly creative which still remains true.  Perhaps he is best described by the words of his son.  At Ezekiel's, my grand son, kindergarten graduation, on stage he was asked who he wanted to grow up to be like.  He instantly replied, "I want to be like my dad and help people."  What else would a parent long to hear?

One never tires of watching their children grow.  I am no different.  I watch Matthew unfold, face his challenges, and observe what he holds dear.  He has the proverbial 'green thumb' and successfully plants a wonderful vegetable garden every year, donating tomatoes from 70 plants to Habitat for Humanity.  His two children have their own garden so I know his abilities are gently being passed down.  He is an exceptional craftsman who once carved bowls, cabinets, tables, and pens.  He has very little time for that now, but I suspect once his children are older, he will pick up his tools again.

Where did you come from, my son?  How is it you know what you do?  Do you still connect with the stars and watch the evening's setting sun?  Are you still barefoot walking upon  the earth as though it were sacred.?  I know you have taught both children to drum, and I can't help but wonder what else they will learn from your connection with nature.

Matthew carries his light into  darkness as challenges come and go.  He is more gentle with others, than with his own soul.  This little light of mine, let him shine, let him shine.