A Letter To My Daughter On Her First Birthday

I've debated whether or not to post this letter. At first, I was going to keep it private but after further thought I have changed my mind. I framed this letter along with the gift you will read about and gave it to Abbey on her first Birthday. Thanks again for taking part in my families journey.


Jan. 1, 2006

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.


My Sweet Daughter:
These verses have taken on new meaning since your arrival. 2005 started out as the happiest time your mother and I have ever experienced. You literally ushered in the 2005 year. What a joy to watch your birth. Daddy has had many exciting experiences but all pale in comparison to your birth. In an instant you became unconditionally loved. As soon as you came out of mommy, I asked the nurse, “Can I touch her?” Holding you and touching you has been my favorite pastime since.

Although 2005 started out with such joy, it has also brought great sorrow and sadness. My wife and your mother came within inches of dying. Someday, when you are old enough I will tell you the whole story. But for now this is what I want to say. In your lifetime you will experience both great joy and great sorrow. I suspect there will be times when life makes sense and everything seems to run smoothly. However, daddy also realizes there will be times of hurt, depression, questioning, doubt, sadness, anger and utter confusion.

Abbey, I pray everyday that you will hold on to God’s word as your guide and reference point. Take solace in the fact that we are told there will be a “time and season for everything.” And please, Abbey, I pray, never let you immediate circumstances dictate your faith and trust in almighty God.

Your first birthday gift from daddy is a clock. You will receive many more from me in your lifetime. I pray you will let this gift (and all future gifts) represent the time and seasons of your life. Again, some clocks or watches you receive will come with great joy as we experience times of celebration. And on other occasions these time pieces will represent much sorrow and sadness. But they will always represent that God is in control and one day will bring all time under his reign.

Abbey, I pray you will never put your faith and trust into things that have no power to index your reliance upon God. Instead, stay close to his word, rest in his grace and know that in time, God will be who God will be.

You are my greatest joy.

Happy 1st Birthday.

Love,
Dad