To My Big Boy

You are about to leave home. About to start a life of your own.

I've waited for this since the day you were born.

My heart is so full, that it aches. I am so unbelievably happy. Yet...there is a twinge of sadness.

I'm not unhappy about where you are going. I wouldn't want it any other way. You are going to where you are supposed to be, together with your future wife. To the life you are building together. But I will no longer be a part of the many moments of your life.

It's not like you ever really leave. A child is always in his mother's heart and mind.

But you will be missed.

I remember holding you...my first child....in your first moments of life.

Where have the years flown?

Where has the little boy gone?

Has the time really come?

Yom Kippur just passed. I davened for each of my children. I davened for all their personal needs. I worried about what is ordained for the coming year.

But my thoughts were especially with you.

I thought about everything that happened since last Yom Kippur. I thought about the monumental change in your life. And I davened for you and your kallah. For your new home. And for the children who will hopefully fill it.

I thank Hashem for allowing me to raise you and care for you, and for giving me such joy in watching you grow up to be the special person you are today.

My heart is full.

I wish for you so many things....so many blessings...so much good.

I wish for you only goodness. Only the very best of everything.

And I wish you and your wonderful, sweet kallah...your future wife...a life of true happiness. A life in which you will see the fulfillment of all your heart's desires.

Mazel tov to my dear, dear son.