Surgical 16

Dear Amonte,

I have been wanting to write this letter for weeks now. However, with everything that has been going on it never seemed like the right time. I know that this is not how you imagined turning 16. It certainly isn't what I would have wanted for you. The past two months have been so painful for you. Both physically and emotionally. But in this I have learned something new about you. You are stronger than I have ever given you credit for.

It's no secret that I have babied you. Spoiled you. I spent so many years trying to make up for the absence of your father and for all the mistakes I made while learning to be a mother. I never gave you a chance to figure things out for yourself. When anything was difficult I swooped in and took over. This time, I can't take over. I can do nothing to help you. But my helplessness has let your true strength shine.

You have handled yourself with an amazing amount of courage, dignity and humor. You have faced pain and uncertainty calmly. You have never once lashed out at anyone trying to help you. You have found the comical in a situation I could never see the humor in.

I am so very proud of you. For if 16 is any indication of the man you are growing into all those who know you are truly blessed.

"Bow down to me, cause my ass is holy!" I'm bowing. But not because of the huge holes in your hiney. But because you are an amazing young man with a bright future.

Happy belated sweet 16 McLovin.

Love,

Mommy