See Elijah’s letter here and Chaya’s letter here.
Dear Gabriel,
My Bubba! You are different in that you seen a lot of your Mom when you were a baby and when your Mom and I switched roles, it was pretty rough on you. You were old enough to know what’s going on and to have real emotions about it. Let me just tell ya son, I know I can’t give ya what your Mom does; no Dad can, but I love you with all of my heart and I try Gabe…I try!
You are so smart Gabriel! Your Mom and I have been amazed at how you pick things up since you were born. Heck, I think you came out walkin! We probably don’t say it enough, but we are so proud of you! The way you rattle off Bible verses like you wrote the book, is so awesome! You’re such a good kid and again, I love you.
What can I tell ya about your name? Your Mom’s family has been telling you from day 1…..Gabriel, you’re gonna blow the horn! You are our angel, Gabe, and aptly named!
My letter to you is a bit different because I’m not going to put in here all the things I want you to do and how I pray for you to live for Christ. Yes, I want those things for you and I pray for you every day, but I know that you already know. Sometimes you act like you don’t listen, but I know you do. I see the way you treat people and the way you respect adults and the thought of it makes me smile. I know that I haven’t always been the most respectful and you, unlike your brother and sister, were around to catch a few of my “bad years.” I won’t apologize because I see how you have handled it and I applaud you. God did good with you and you don’t harbor any resentment towards me, but instead I have watched you change with me.
Here in a few weeks you’re gonna have a brother. You’ve never been thrilled about your sister and I pray that changes with time, but you seem very excited about having a little brother. God’s plan is obviously at work in this family because I cannot imagine Elijah having a better big brother. I know you will teach and protect him well. You have been through this once, but this time will be a little different just because you’re 7 years old. There will be much more you can help me with, but I promise I’m gonna do my best to not take advantage of you. I also promise, as I have promised your sister, there will still be time for just you and I.
I hate to see ya grow up so fast, but I can’t wait to see what you will become. I know God has mighty plans for you son. Listen to Him always and go where He leads!
I love you Gabriel!
Dad
