My son’s adviser and retreat coordinator were asking us parents to write a letter for our sons to read at the end of their retreat. So, my husband and I started gathering our million thoughts to come up with an inspiring message for Johnboy. As we went through this exercise we learned, and realized that there are so many fond memories and things we wanted to share with our son. We ended up pouring our hearts out in telling him our feelings which we normally could not express in our daily endearments with him. Thanks to good old letter writing.

Dearest Johnboy,

We are sure at this time that you have gone through another important experience in your life at the end of your first retreat. We are thanking God as always for His continued blessings to our family and in particular to your growth and education just as we have thanked God in giving you to us 11 years ago. We are very blessed indeed to know that you are turning out to be a very responsible Christian and a very caring “Kuya” to your younger sister and baby brother.

As your loving parents, we just want you to know that we will always be proud of you for what you are and what you are going to be. No matter what it is that you want to accomplish in your life please remember, that your mom and dad will be behind you and will be praying for you so that you will achieve what God wills to be done for you.

We are hoping as well that with your new experience you somehow learned that things may not always be the way you want them to be, but with your loving family behind you (Dad & Mom, Bea & Andre, Grandma & Grandpas) we hope that you understand that God has given you the best. So every time you encounter problems and you feel sad or down just remember that your mom and dad knows it and are thinking of ways how to best heal your wounds and give you what you truly need. Never think for one moment that we have stopped caring for you. Your welfare is always in our thoughts and in our dreams. Also, never ever think that you could fail us. We will always be proud of you for what you are because we know that you are God’s precious jewel that He entrusted to us.

So, Johnboy, as you go through the lessons in life, we want you to remember that we will be here for as long as God allows us to be. Never fail to pray to Him and to continue thanking Him for the beautiful life He has given you.

Love Always,

Mom & Dad