To my baby, 예람이

I really wanted to write you something special because getting your driver’s license is such a big moment and I’m genuinely so proud of you!!!! I know how much effort and courage it takes to learn something like that, especially when you’re already carrying so many other things on your mind right now. Seeing you do it really just reminds me again of how strong and capable you are. You keep showing up for yourself and pushing through things even when they feel intimidating, and that’s something I admire about you so much.

Being close to you has made me reflect a lot on myself. I notice that I learn a lot just from the way you approach things, from the way you ask questions, from the way you insist on honesty even when it would be easier to avoid it. It makes me want to grow in that direction too. Not because I feel pressured to, but because I genuinely respect the way you see the world and the way you care about people. Loving you has made me more thoughtful about the kind of partner and person I want to be. And I find something very special in the fact that I can admire you not just because I love you, but because I truly respect the way you think and the way you live your values. That kind of admiration is something I never take for granted. I feel like I may have said this kind of thing a few times recently, so I am sorry if I’m repeating myself… but I just really wanted to express how much it means to me. 

I love you so much, and I want you to know that I’m here with you through everything that’s coming next. I know you’re about to move somewhere new and that the situation in the Middle East can feel scary when you see the news or think about it too much. But you’re not alone in that. I’ll be right here with you through all of it. I’ll keep checking in, making sure you’re okay, and staying connected to what’s going on. We’ll face whatever comes together, you don’t have to carry that fear by yourself.

More than anything, I just want you to remember how loved you are. I’m really proud of you , and I’m thankful that I get to share my life with someone as thoughtful, strong, and caring as you. I can’t wait to see all the places you’ll drive to next, and I’ll be rooting for you on the whole way.

I really really love you.

– Darran