Welcome to the world.
We're all so happy to have you here.
The sun smiles a little more widely.
The fog dances a little more wildly.
The ocean splashes a little outside her lines.
The stars stay out a little past their bedtime.
They're so happy they get to see you now. You are so important.
There's never been a you before, so seeing you reminds them:
Goodness can be born in a blink.
Champions can be made in a moment.
Little feet can make big impact.
The world is birthing her own medicine- little hands that will become bigger hands, bigger hands that might just refuel her with joy and health.
Anything is possible.
It's safe to be a little brave.
But of course you know that, you're too new to have forgotten.
Could you hear your mom's thoughts when you lived inside her? She doesn't share them with everyone. You're very lucky. Do you remember floating? We all forget eventually. You're very blessed.
Maybe one day, if you stay gentle, you'll be privileged to the quiet thoughts of thinkers again. Maybe one day, if you work hard, you can visit your stars and float in space again.
Does it feel oh-so-very wonderful to be free, and yet oh-so-very terrifying?
I understand.
Does being alive in such a different world feel exciting and uncertain, all at once?
I understand.
You're too young for the story of why I understand so well. The story of why you didn't hear my laugh while you were floating. The story of why you haven't heard my voice just yet.
You're too small for big stories, which is why you'll have to find a book or twenty to love. Keep listening. Become a strong reader, so you'll be able to carry any story you want, no matter how young you are or how heavy it is.
You will get bigger, little Bear, but you are small now, so I will tell you a small story:
Everything's gonna be okay.You are loved.
It is a gift, yours for the keeping. You're welcome to plant it deep in the Earth when your little feet become big feet, when your little hands become big hands, so that you can make sure your sun, and your stars, your ocean, and your fog, know too.
I know it for certain, even though I don't know much about life or how to live it, and by the time you're old enough to really understand what I mean by that, I'll probably know even less.
But I do know how very loved you are. I loved you with all my heart before I even knew you were coming.
And I also know, it's okay to be a little brave, because no matter how a day feels or a page in a story sounds....
Everything's gonna be okay.
Okay- or better.
Better, and gentle.
Gentle and brave.
Just like you.
Good morning, Bear.