A Letter To My Son

A letter to my son: even typing the words out still makes me step back in disbelief. The knowledge that there will soon be a new life in our family is so enormous that it just seems beyond me. I have so many feelings about raising a baby boy into a happy and loved young man; love, warmth, protectiveness and pride.

I recently saw the new commercial from the Dairy Farmers of Ontario, where a letter is shared from a real Ontario dairy farmer to his children. The letter is so heartwarming, and details how this hardworking father hopes that growing up on a dairy farm will instil strong values in his children. Now, I don't know if it's the pregnancy hormones or the fact that one of my best childhood friends grew up on a dairy farm, but to say that I was misty eyed after watching the commercial is an understatement.

I was inspired to write my own letter, to my unborn child who may not be in our arms just yet, but who I carry close to me and who keeps me company every day. So, to my boy: this is to you.

To our son,

Although we haven't met formally, I feel as though your place in our lives has always been. With each movement, each kick I feel as though our bond grows. There are so many feelings involved with bringing you into this world, and so many unknowns for when you make your grand arrival. Although I cannot predict or control the future, as much as I try, there are certain things that I want you to know and that I hope for you as you grow.

I hope that you always know and feel the strong love of a family. You are already so wanted and so loved, not only by your dad and me but also by so many others who cannot wait to meet you. Your grandparents, who truly thought that this day would never come and beam with excitement with each passing week. Your uncles, who already vow you make sure you always have someone to play, laugh, and explore with. Cousins, extended family, great grandparents. So many people and so much love for you; I hope that you always feel and take comfort in it.

I hope you know that your dad and I always want what's best for you, be it in school, activities and just life in general. But above everything, your happiness will always be our number one priority. Never worry about disappointing us, because as long as you're happy then our souls will be filled.

The world can be a scary place, and often times life will not seem fair. My hope for you is that we give you the emotional security to navigate this sometimes confusing life. I hope you know that it's okay to truly feel, and that it's okay to cry. It's okay to fail, and there's honour in getting up and trying again. And above all I hope that you know that we will always be there for you, both in your proudest moments, your struggles, and everything in-between. I hope that your family always remains your source of comfort and security.

Trust in the good intentions of others, and treat everyone with respect and dignity. Lead with a strong heart and a good mind. Know that vulnerability and kindness will be your biggest strengths in life, and not a weakness. Make good choices.

We haven't even met earth-side yet but my wish and hopes for you, our son, is that you always know and feel love.

Wow, the hormones are REALLY kicking in after that one. Thank you for allowing me to share this personal piece with you. I feel more focused, assured and confident in our future. And more than anything, I feel more excited to finally be able to meet our boy.

xoxo Joëlle

This post was inspired by and created in partnership with the Dairy Farmers of Ontario. Thank you so much for the amazing vision and for inspiring this post that will stay with me forever.