May. 3, 2008 - For Asrat
Dear Asrat,
You are my first. My guinea pig. Five years ago you were born to Baba and me. Undeserving as we were, you were God’s special wedding gift to us, our honeymoon baby. And we sure do love you.
We have made so many mistakes with you, done so much wrong. I wish I could rewind the years and take back all the stupid things I’ve done and said. All the times I misunderstood you, and yelled at you, and sent you to the corner when you didn’t deserve it. Baba and I are learning right along with you, and I hope when you grow up, you don’t remember too many of our mistakes.
But now you are 5 and you don’t seem any the worse for wear. Already we can tell that you are brilliant, and you amaze us with your feats of learning. Just around this time last year you decided on your own that it was time to start writing, and you did it. Since that first large scrawl of your name, you have come a long way, and while your handwriting isn’t perfect, it’s pretty darn good for a five year old. You’re doing first grade math, you’re hooked on science, and you love to do “experiences” (by which you mean “experiments”). You joyfully tell me all your new discoveries, and I sure love to hear them.
Last year, your sensitive nature caused us a great deal of trouble, but this year it seems to have morphed into something more manageable and reasonable. You have learned to make appeals without whining or crying, and to let us know if you’re afraid or upset without bursting into tears. This makes life easier for all of us! You are more concerned with the world around you, and often ask insightful (and difficult) questions about what you see and hear. I’m afraid there aren’t any good answers to some of those questions.
I am most impressed with your tender heart towards others. You are far from perfect, but when I point out to you that you have hurt someone, I can see that you are ashamed and your repentence is genuine. You are always looking for ways to be helpful and kind to others. You tolerate Gebre with remarkable patience on most days. And you have declared yourself “teacher” for your brothers, though immediately after making that declaration, you came to me frustrated because they weren’t listening to you! But Biruk adores you, and with good reason. Never has a baby had such a wonderful older brother. You draw sweet, heart-filled “Love” pictures for special people. Last night you made one for me, with hearts and “Love” and “by Asrat” and a…computer (were you trying to tell me something?).
It is fabulous watching you grow up!
Love you forever,
Mama
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Comments
May. 3, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Anonymous
YAY! Happy birthday Asrat! Lots of hugs =)
Love,
Sandy and Justin, Amanda, Sissy, Wes and Isaiah...
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May. 4, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by mickey
happy birthday little nephew! I'm sorry to miss seeing my boys grow up but you're turning into an incredible young man. much love to you!
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May. 5, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Lizzie
he really is such a sweet little boy, and so kissable! It'll be hard when he hits the "don't-kiss-me-I'm-a-big-boy" phase! Happy Birthday, Biruk!!! :)
Mags, I was thinking about having a little 30th anniversary celebration this Thursday before mom and dad go away. Do you think there is any chance you guys could come? I know it is a weekday, so I know it is a long shot, but I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask!
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May. 5, 2008 - Untitled Comment
Posted by Lizzie
Whoops, I put my birthday wishes for Biruk in the wrong post!
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