I think I was about 10 when I found my baby book in my closet. I remember sitting on my bed looking at all the pictures, cards, little tidbits of info about me. An unfamiliar feeling began rise up. My first real sense of being sentimental and feeling nostalgic. About 1/2 way through the book there is a spot where the new Mom and Dad write a letter to their baby. My mom’s letter was expressive and loving and sweet-the way she writes- the way she is. Then I read my Dad’s. If you’ve ever met Scott Cameron, you know…he is a man of few words. He writes the same way. There is no fluff. It’s raw and cuts straight to the heart. I can still see myself sitting on my bed tears streaming down my face. Just a kid- reading words of love from her parents.
Over the years my parents have always written to me. Cards, letters, random notes. Just the other day I went to the mailbox to find a letter from Dad. It was a really nice letter. Talking about a project I had worked on that he was proud of my creativity for…etc. It was a sweet letter, made my morning. Then I got to the last line. I’m telling you— he went straight for the jugular.
The last line of the letter read, “You make me glad I was born.”
Of course the tears immediately began to flow and my heart was overwhelmed- I felt the love in those words jump off the page and fill my chest. I made him glad he was born? And I knew he meant it. And I knew that somehow, someway my kids need to feel that kind of love from me. A love that says I’m proud of you. I know your quirks, your flaws, your imperfections- but your life makes mine worthwhile. Maybe I’ll write a letter…
What makes you feel loved?
SO many things make me feel loved. Where do I even begin… coffee waiting for me on at my desk in the morning, my vitamins laid out for me on the counter at night, random texts during the week from thoughtful friends (Nina & Noelle), knowing I can call a friend to ask a favor last minute and they always come through (Martin), my dogs behaving, early morning runs in the mountains… I could go on and on, but those are the things that immediately come to mind. To be honest, I don’t think there has ever been a time in my life when I haven’t felt loved. I have much to be thankful for.
All I have to say is Scott Cameron, was probably teary when he wrote that. I love your dad so much!!!!!