Dearest Joshua,

 

Twenty years ago, today, you, my sweet Joshua was born.  What a blessing you are.  Such a tender heart.  Incredibly gifted and talented.  Josh, you are a perfect combination of a manly man and yet a tender gentle man.

You are so strong and capable of so many things, yet incredibly tender and compassionate.  You love deep and are fiercely protective, especially of me, your mama.

I am so proud of the man you have become.  I see you struggle with waiting and trusting God, but you persevere.  I understand the desires you have for your future, and while I would love to ‘make it all better’ and just give you your heart’s desire, I see your Father working something infinitely better than I could ever offer.

You are extremely accomplished in the arena of music.  You have a passion for it written deep in your heart.  I look forward to seeing the full purpose of such passion.

I will FOREVER be thankful for your hugs.  I am not sure if you need them or if you know I do.  They always calm me and center me.  You have even learned the fine art of walking away, if a hug is the last thing I want to receive.   Funny, though, your instincts are right, in times like that a hug is exactly what I need.  I just don’t know it.

You are going to be an awesome husband and father one day, I know it.  Your wife will be so blessed.  You know, they say a man treats his wife like he treated his mama?  See what I am saying, she is going to be blessed.  The tenderness and care that you show me melts my heart and will her heart too. 

I love you, Joshua Brian.  You are a gift, pure and simple. 

Happy Birthday!