The Love Letters

I started my Valentine's Day kind of hectic. We decided on a last minute trip to Baltimore to visit my cousin Traci and Marc. It was a surprise for Jax, so when I picked him from school early he stopped me in the lobby. "Mommy, why do I have to leave early?". "We are going to the Broadys' house", I said. He stopped and hugged me tightly and silently wept. He was that happy. Happy tears is what he calls them. He's an emotional kid. We allow him to express his emotions.

On the drive I reminded my wife of my love by the playlist of songs. Sometimes love can get lost in parenting. Whenever a song played I would look in the rearview mirror and see if she was smiling. She was smiling.

This weekend reminded me of the Newsletter I promised myself I would start as I slowly pull away from some social media platforms. I hadn't decided on a title or specific content until the drive home. My inspiration comes from love and music. I have to pull from love because of the immense amount of tragic loss in my life. Seeing our son so happy this weekend and it being Valentines Day, coupled with the chaos in the world....I decided to call my Newsletter, The Love Letters. Once a month I will highlight love in and around my life. How I spread love, how I have received love, how one can give love and joy!! I want to spread some joy.

So, to begin I'm going to start with Black Boy Joy.

Dear Black boy,

You are loved.

You can be vulnerable and not considered a sissy.

It's okay to smile.

Give hugs and receive them. Expect them.

Don't let anyone tell you not to cry.

Go where you feel loved.

Shine your light in dark places.

When the world get's heavy put it down. Contrarily to popular belief you are not required to hold it up.

You are allowed to have joy.

Love Mandy