ONE
With 27 pounds, 8 words, four teeth, and immeasurable joy to his parents accomplished, Sam is approaching his first birthday. I’m constantly surprised at how fast this is going.
To say his value to my life is unprecedented would be a pale understatement.
The brilliance of an uncluttered mind is so refreshing. His sense of life projects a contagious reminder of the world as it should and ought to be. If only the high from him looking me square in the eyes and smiling could be bottled and sold.*
I wish every human could enjoy that perfectly seasoned mixture of life, joy, purity, honesty, and the sense of pride that connects it all. Doubtless the bonds we share with our spouse or family members are sacred and intense. On an entirely different level are the bonds held with a human whose expressions can be nearly felt, whose glance so resembles our other half, whose mannerisms are so acutely familiar, and who existence wholly depends on our rationality. In a sense I consider it me that I’m caring for, that it’s my legs learning to walk, or that it’s my security and comfort he clings for. I protect his being with no less intensity than I protect my own - likely more.
His first year of life has been the most cherished, productive and memorable of my own.
* Too bad it would take 10 years and 80 million to slog through the FDA.
