Every year around Jackson’s birthday, I write a blog post commemorating the event. I also write him a letter and stick it in a special birthday book. I will give him the book on his 18th birthday. Birthdays have always been a big deal to me. They’re meant to be celebrated.
This year it took me a little longer to decide what I wanted to share with you on your sixth birthday. Of course there are memories from the past year that I could reminisce about. I could write about all the things I love about you – your joy, your sense of humor, your determination. I could talk about your love of monster trucks, Dr Pepper and iPad time. But for some reason it didn’t feel like enough. It felt like I’m supposed to tell you something more.
I wasn’t sure what it was until I came across a quote from actress Viola Davis when I was reading the other night.
She says, Every story matters…We are all worthy of telling our stories and having them heard.
I’m a writer so it’s only fitting that stories are a big part of my life. I believe stories are meant to be shared – the ones with happy endings and the ones full of heartbreak.
I’m 100% certain that when we’re transparent and vulnerable about our struggles God will use it for His glory. I believe when we are courageous enough to share the not so pretty parts of our lives we give others permission to share their not so pretty stories, too.
Jackson, you are about to begin the sixth chapter of your story.
Your story leaves me breathless.
It’s a story with God’s fingerprints all over it.
It’s a story that continues to unfold.
It’s a story full of joy and hope and pain.
It’s a story of faith.
It’s a story that takes a lot of courage.
Jackson, your story matters.
As we celebrate your birthday today, this is what I want you to know:
Your story matters.
Your story will make a difference.
Never be ashamed of your story.
No, your story won’t always be easy – in fact parts of it have been really hard – but God will use every word, every sentence and every chapter for His glory, if you will let Him.
Your story is one of my most favorite stories and I am honored and humbled that God has allowed me to be a part of it.
Your story is not finished.
Jackson, I believe without a doubt that God has big plans for you.
Philippians 1:6 says, There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
I cannot wait to see how the next chapter unfolds.
Happy 6th Birthday, Jackson!
I am so very proud to be your Mom!