One year ago our lives changed forever. Into our hearts and home came this little man as helpless as can be completely dependent on his mother and father to care for him. When you were growing inside your mother I'd often daydream about all the lessons we were going to teach you. Little did I know that you were going to be teaching us the lessons first. You were named after a very influential thinker and scientist, Carl Sagan. He was a man of great wisdom. The name Sagan itself means wisdom. We chose the middle name Anand because it means bliss. A source of wisdom and bliss you certainly are. I'd like to share a few things I learned from you this past year:
1. Parents are ministers.
I learned what the word minister really means. A newborn baby is dependent on you for everything. You don't have to be religious to be in servitude to someone else. Sure we are your guardians, but as your guardians it is our job to care for you. This takes humility and patience. Characteristics you helped us beef up.
2. You'll make big moves when you're good and ready.
A developing human will make their next move when they are good and ready. Your body dictated when you were ready to sit up, chew food, crawl, etc. These things happened when they were going to happen. We all had to wait, even you. I think this applies to more than your physical development. Before you started walking on your own, we knew you could. We caught you a few times taking a step or two on your own. As many times as we encouraged you to walk, even though you could, you waited until it felt right for you. I won't forget this lesson. I will give you space and time when you are making important decisions.
3. Find joy in the little things.
One morning I saw you blissfully playing with the most simple household object. You were so happy. What the hell is wrong with us adults that cannot find joy in the simple things? Thanks for the reminder kid.
4. Happiness is contagious.
You exemplify this term. You laugh with us even if you don't know what's going on. I will carry this with me. I will always try to give others the happy bug. As our friend Raven is always going on about with good reason, "mirror neurons!" I learned that a happy baby just doesn't get hugs, kisses, praise, etc. A happy baby comes from a home of happy people.
5. Your mother deserves deep gratitude and respect.
You taught me that your mother is tough as nails. From twenty-eight hours of labor to sleepless nights to breast feeding you up to now to every single sacrifice she has had to make to give you the best care. All this makes her a superwoman. She is to be revered and given the utmost respect. You are healthy and here because of her. I will always cherish her for this as I know you shall as well.
I love you Sagan. Thank you for your gifts. It may not always be easy to be a parent but it is rewarding when you see your child turning out so wonderfully. Happy first birthday my son.
Love,
Dad
