It’s a funny thing not having updated your blog for ages. On the couple of occasions in the last few months that I’ve actually had intentions of updating, I’ve read through my last couple posts and considered all the life that’s happened since then that I didn’t blog about. I would think, “if not then, why now?” and post my thought on Facebook or Twitter instead. And yet – here I am…
My son turns sixteen tomorrow. Forgive me for wallowing in cliched sentimentality, but it seems like yesterday that they let us go home with this red, wrinkled creature without supervision. It seems like yesterday that we laughed till we couldn’t breathe the first time he really laughed that kind of laugh that leaves you exhausted. It seems like yesterday that my wife got a little mad at me when I sat him upright in the shopping cart seat because she thought he was too little, and I didn’t. It seems like yesterday that I took him to see the first of the new Star Wars movies. It wasn’t all just yesterday. It’s been sixteen years. Holy crap.
Matt is smarter than me. I don’t feel bad because he’s smarter than most people I know, which still leaves lots of room for my ego. My wife and I used to tell new parents that among all the other blessings that come with parenthood, what a trip it was to hold a conversation with your kid as if you were talking to another adult. In hindsight, we may have thrown those people a little curve ball because we were enjoying such conversations with Matt much sooner than I’m sure most parents do.
Though there are occasions where a subtle expression or comment makes it known that he’s merely tolerating our nonsense, Matt’s humility and respect of us and other adults is remarkable. When experience and God-established authority trumps his own understanding, Matt says, “Yes sir.” When Matt is introduced to someone, he looks them in the eye and gives a firm handshake. He hugs his parents no matter who’s watching. He has always gotten straight A’s. He’s the funniest person I’ve ever known. He’s an incredible drummer. Matt’s appreciation of movies, food, music, and books has always been that of a person well beyond his years. I’ve watched him learn to do things in a fraction of the time it would take a normal person. Sometimes I don’t get him. Sometimes it’s like God pushed the rewind button on my life.
My wife and I have had some fun with him repeating a Homer Simpson quote for years. “When you’re eighteen you’re outta here!” It’s not funny anymore. College is still a couple years off. Even still, I have to choke back tears just thinking about it. That day will possess epic suck. I love him so much and miss him already.
This is my blog. It’s supposed to be about me. Trust me, it is. I want what most guys want. Among other things, I want to leave a legacy. I want an imprint of who I am to be left when I’m gone. If I got hit by a bus tomorrow and the world knew me through my sixteen-year-old son, I couldn’t be more blessed. Happy birthday Matt.