To My Son on His 16th Birthday

You are a man, sixteen today
Slowly discovering your own way.
The best part of your parent’s love,
A wondrous gift from God above.

Strong and grounded in your beliefs,
Ever ready to lend relief
To your friends and family
Or any other need you see.

You’re always willing to talk with me
Even if, at times, we disagree
Expanding my world with new ideas
Challenging me to face my fears.

I cherish you, my precious son
For in my life, you are the one
Who knows my heart and mind the best
And treats me different than the rest.

As your years of manhood increase
May our closeness never cease.
Though it will change, for change is good
I pray it’s always understood.