My Dearest,
My, how you’ve grown this year. I can’t believe you are fifteen already. I feel like I only had you yesterday, and (as you’re fond of reminding me) you’ll reach driving age shortly.
Last year, I marvelled at how the essence of your personality still shines through even after all these years. At the risk of sounding repetitive, I can still see these same traits. You still love music and humming all the time. You are still curious and love participating in adult conversations and even sharing your opinions. I love that you do that, that you can debate tough topics with the grownups. I love that you are always, without fail, respectful in these conversations, even though we must be tedious at times.
I love how helpful you are. Every time I ask for help, whether to open a stubborn jar or get something off a high shelf, you happily oblige. You started cooking some meals, which I absolutely love. I don’t think you realise how much these make me happy. First, I’m proud to watch you enjoy cooking and creating something tasty and nourishing. Second, I’m delighted to get a night off cooking.
I haven’t seen much of your friends lately. I think it’s because you meet up after school for band rehearsals or DND sessions. I kind of miss your shared goofiness. You inevitably spend more time outside the house as you become increasingly independent. You started volunteering this summer, and I love it when you tell me stories about the people you meet. But it also blows my mind that there are people out there who know you independently of knowing me. There are people in the world I’ve never met who know you as a person. Don’t laugh at me; it will make sense when you’re older.
Your sense of humour always cracks me up. You have developed a snarky irony that I find hilarious when it is not directed at me. And you also make other, non-sarcastic jokes that are funny. I love that we can laugh about things as a family.
So, belatedly, this year, I wish you luck in navigating the turbulent waters of adolescence. It’s hard to know what the right thing is sometimes. That, by the way, will be true for the rest of your life. But if you approach decisions with your innate kindness and curiosity, I know you will make the right ones.
Love,
Ima.
For the sentimental: A list of previous letters.
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