Tomorrow is a day that means more to me than you'll probably understand for many years.
Beckett, tomorrow you turn 11.
Henry, tomorrow you turn 10.
Somehow, the little boys who used to fit in my arms are growing into young men right in front of my eyes.
People always tell parents that time flies, but I never really understood what that meant until I became a dad. It feels like yesterday that I was teaching you how to throw a ball, helping you tie your shoes, carrying you when you were tired, and hearing your little voices call for me from another room. Now I find myself watching the two of you become your own people, and that's one of the greatest gifts of my life.
Beckett, I love watching the way you think. You are growing into someone who cares deeply, who notices things, and who wants to do things the right way. I am proud of the young man you are becoming, not because of what you accomplish, but because of who you are when nobody is watching.
Henry, you bring a light into every room you walk into. Your energy, your smile, and the way you see the world make people want to be around you. You remind me that joy is something that should be shared, and I hope you never lose that gift.
What I want both of you to know is this:
You never have to earn my love.
Not with grades.
Not with sports.
Not with achievements.
Not with success.
I loved you before you ever accomplished a single thing, and I will love you long after anyone remembers your accomplishments.
My greatest privilege in life is being your dad.
More important than any job I've ever had, any game I've ever played, any award I've ever won, or any title I've ever carried, is the fact that I get to be your father.
As you get older, there will be days when you feel strong and confident, and there will be days when you doubt yourselves. On both kinds of days, remember who you are. Be kind. Be brave. Work hard. Take care of people. Stand up for what is right. And never be afraid to fail while chasing something that matters.
Most of all, know that no matter how old you get, where life takes you, or how much you change, you will always be my boys.
Happy Birthday, Beckett.
Happy Birthday, Henry.
I love you more than you'll ever know.
Dad