For Jacob Nathaniel

Hello son, I’m not sure if I will be with you when you read this first time, at least not in a physical sense. Right now I don’t know the future, life can be like that sometimes my beautiful boy. It can deal you some rough justice at times, but it is our destiny to always come out the other side smiling. It’s your destiny Jacob, you are the most angelic child a parent could ever wish for. You bring so much happiness and that is a gift which you will carry through life.

When you were born I was the first one to hold you in my arms. I was so filled with pride. I handed you to Mummy and we were dazzled by the most resplendent illuminations. That was the happiest day in my entire life you know; nothing could hold a candle up to my finest achievement. You’re like me, you have a light which others discern the moment they clap eyes on you. It spreads and others feel more contented just knowing that you’re around.

There is one thing I ask of you Jacob, one singular favor if you would be so kind. Be happy, that’s it. Wear that smile as much as you can as it will open doors, form lifelong friendships and find you a lady deserving of the love you have to give. Try not to regret, trust your gut, love openly and without dalliance. If life gives you a knock, get back to your feet, smile and carry on.

If you find love, and believe me it’ll come running for you, be considerate and understanding but always make sure you’re considered and understood also. If you have a dream, reach for it. Nothing is out of sight if you have belief and surround yourself with people who believe in you too.

There may be people you don’t hit it off with and that’s fine. Everyone is unique and it takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile, ask Uncle Sting. If people say things to upset you or are intentionally mean, walk away and be the better person. However, if you fight for a cause and you believe in it ferociously then choose a Quill over your brawn wherever possible. If you have no other option then remember Buzz Lightyear, zap ’em with your wrist laser and turn ’em in to Sheriff Woody.

You will have an artist inside of you, daddy has seen this as my father spotted in me when I was a boy. Embrace your inner artist and let your creativity run wild. There’s nothing more marvelous than imagination, if you believe then make it so. If somebody tells you something is impossible search for the possibilities as, should they be there, you’ll find them. I have faith in this son.

If I could give you a technique to help you filter through the smog you will face at times, then it would be to cherry-pick. Mummy loves cherries, they make her smile. If you read something then look for the positives. Should negativity be ingested then simply come to your own conclusions. You have a wondrous mind so use it at each available opportunity as it will see you right.

Try not to break sentences, let others talk as it helps them relate to you. You are polite and courteous already so simply continue this through your life as every please and thank you doubles and then perpetuates itself, sending little ripples of love through everyone’s hearts. It tickles, you’ll like it.

Be good to Mummy and look after each other. Give her kisses on her wrists and face whenever she looks sad and tell her every day how much you love her…she’ll appreciate that. She loves you more than anything else in the world and I’ve never seen her happier than the first time she held you cradled in her arms. She was so brave that day and Daddy will always be so proud of her for the way she brought you into this world.

Remember this always, every day is an adventure waiting to happen.

I love you. I love you so much my beautiful boy. I love you with all of my heart.

Sincerely always and forever,

Daddy