Dear teenage son,
I know there’s a lot you don’t say. There are weights you carry on your ever broadening shoulders that you never mention to me. Questions you’re afraid to ask and problems you’re overwhelmed by.
I know you’re trying to figure things out. These teen years are tough. Relationships are a roller coaster ride, and you’re expected to juggle school and sports and family time—all while learning how to be a man. It’s not easy.
I see how sometimes you’re torn between the child you were and the man you will be. You’re somewhere in between right now, and it’s weird for you. It’s weird for me too. But I need you to know something. I need you to know I’m still here.
I’ve been here from the beginning. I looked into your baby blue eyes the day you were born and knew I’d love you forever. I helped you take your first steps and cheered you on as you splashed in the puddles of the soccer field, chasing butterflies instead of the ball.
I was there, crying in the hall after I left your classroom that first day of school, knowing you were going to do great and wondering how I was going to make it until you came home. I was the one buying the poster board on a late-night run to the store because you forgot about your school project. I beamed with pride at all your programs and concerts and awards nights.
I’ve worried over you when you’ve been sick and been your champion when you needed defending. I have let you make some hard choices . . . and suffer consequences. I’ve wondered if I’ve done things right. I’ve fretted over things I’ve done wrong. I have cried as the realization dawned that I only have a brief time left before you’re grown.
As you navigate these last few teen years, I will still be here for you. When you need a listening ear, mine is ready. If you need a hug, buddy you know I’ve always got one for you. I will be sad when you are sad. Hurt when you’re hurting. Smile when your smile stretches ear to ear, and I once again glimpse that chubby little boy I used to carry around in my arms.
I still love you more than words can say, my dear teenage son, and I will always be here for you.
by Mikala Albertson 
by Peyton Garland 
by Sara Frank 
