Letter to My Son Going into Kindergarten

Kindergarten. How did we get here? I don’t understand how you are old enough for kindergarten. 5 years ago today we were in the midst of adopting you and you and I were alone in Ethiopia learning how to be a momma and a son. I was scared and you were scared and slowly but surely, you became a momma’s boy and I became absolutely smitten with you.

I have a picture of you from exactly 5 years ago today right after I gave you a bath at the hotel in Addis Ababa. You were so small and so cute. Now, you are losing your baby face and while you are still the cutest, you have turned into a little boy. How did we get here?

I sobbed today before dropping you off at school but made sure you didn’t see. Then, as we were walking to school (me pushing your sister in a stroller while you biked), I marveled how you were old enough to ride your two-wheeler all the way to school. When I walked you to your desk in your classroom, I had to remind myself to quickly get you settled in and then to leave. I knew that being dramatic as I dropped you off would make it harder for you. But in all honesty, I wanted nothing more than to cry. How did we get here?

So many moms seem eager to send their kiddos off to school each fall. (And I get it, kiddos are tiring!) This year, I want time to stand still and to avoid this milestone. Your sister will be great company for me while you are in school, but I will also miss our non-stop day long conversations, your enthusiasm and of course the noise. (I never thought I would miss the noise.)

I am praying for your school year this year. I pray you will always try your hardest, even if the work is easy or challenging or boring or fun. Work hard always. You won’t be the best at everything and that is okay. No one is the best at everything – even if they think they are. Try your hardest and don’t give up.

I am praying your teacher will love you and understand you. You have so much joy and happiness and interesting conversations and facts to give. I hope you show that side of yourself to your teacher.

I am praying your classmates will be kind to you and that you will find kiddos that you can relate to and that can relate to you. You are a smart boy my son. I hope you find other children who know about hydraulics, the innerworkings of trucks, the joy of dually trucks, and who have fun of building unique and imaginative vehicles with Legos. If other children hurt your feelings, because at some point – they will – don’t shut down. Tell them your feelings are hurt and then play with children who are kind. And remember, children and grownups who are not nice usually have a story – instead of showing their sadness or their fear or their loneliness, they lash out. Remember that and don’t be that person.

Most importantly, I pray you will show the love of Jesus to everyone around you. Always be on the lookout for children who are sad or who are being teased or who are alone. Be their friend. There are always children who need to be shown love and friendship and you are the perfect person to do that. Your friendliness and happiness is contagious. Spread it around.

Lastly, you are and will always be my favorite boy in the world. I am thankful you are healthy, thriving and ready for Kindergarten. I am so lucky you are my son. As much as I wish time would stand still, I hope this is your best year yet.

Love,
Momma