To My Quiet Child, I See You

To My Quiet Child,

Sometimes you may feel like the light shining over you is dim. You aren't a one-person parade like your sister. Noise and attention doesn't follow you everywhere you go. I know this can be hard for you, because people don't get to see the real you that I can see. While your sister's personality shines bright and bold to strangers on the street, yours is safely protected underneath your quiet shell, not to emerge unless you think long and carefully about who you're sharing it with. But one day — I think sometime soon — people will begin to see the true you, whether you're still quiet or not. Trust me.

You see, the older you get, the more people will begin to see that generous spirit you have flowing through you. A generous spirit that doesn't need to be loud in order to be seen or heard. You're more than just a kid who follows the rules and embraces structure. You're more than that sweet child who does his chores before everyone else in the house even wakes up in the morning. And you're more than your quiet, kind demeanor. That old cliché "It's what's on the inside that counts" rings very true for you. And as you grow, your friends, teachers, and loved ones will sincerely begin to see your generous spirit that you were born with. The one that's so special, I hope every day that you'll never lose it.

Even as a toddler, you sent friends home from play dates with your toys in their hands. You made people crafts when they were sick. You quietly cared for everyone else around you before thinking of yourself. And now, as you're growing up (way too fast, I might add) in grade school, I can already see the young man evolving within you. When I'm having a hard time with something or losing my temper, you keep me grounded and calm, always searching for the positive aspect in any situation. "How can I help you, mommy?" you ask. You don't yell back when your captain (me) steers the ship toward a storm. Instead, you guide me out of it. I feel so blessed to have you.

Just the other day, your sister dropped her slushy after your soccer tournament. Do you remember what you did? She screamed and cried like someone was cutting off her arm. And with all that chaos swirling around us, you simply pushed your slushy over to her so you could share. You didn't need any praise in return. You didn't even realize I was watching. You just did what you felt was right.

Yes, the older you get, the more people will see and hear you. They'll learn that you are a solid, trustworthy friend — one with integrity, generosity, and strength. It won't matter that you're quiet and shy. As long as you stay true to who you are, the right people will always come into your life. So while no, you won't bang on the drums and tell everyone how great you are (that's just not how you roll, unlike your very confident sister), I want you to know that I see you. I've always seen you. And everyone else will, too, even if takes them a few extra minutes. Trust me, it'll be worth it.

Love Always,
Mom