Freedom of Voice

As uncertainty leads to worry, your rock solid plan crumbling--grains of sand escaping your grasp-- the fragility of it not escaping you, remember this: Tomorrow the sun will still rise.  As triumph leads to celebration, your successful climb continuing--a solid mountain of promises beneath your feet-- the durability of it encouraging you, remember this: Tomorrow the sun will still rise. As messages from the universe lead to realization, reminding you the journey is yours but not all yours--a path of dizzying heights and steep descents-- the irony of it both amusing and frustrating you, remember this: Tomorrow the sun will still rise.  As greedy desires give way to greater purpose, your load lightening--a formidable weight lifted by cosmic powers-- the freedom giving you new hope, remember this: Tomorrow the sun will still rise.  As the sun melts into the horizon, your day ending--a lesson in triumphant or defeat-- the emotions preventing you...

Dear AJ, As we hugged goodbye, you told me you'd make me proud.  I hope you know you already have. Repeatedly. I know you're not a perfect person, and I am well aware of some of the stupid stunts you've pulled over the years. Not all, but some. But, I chalk these up to the foolishness of youth and view these missteps as necessary as you figure out how to navigate the world and develop your own sense of morality.       Here are just some of the things about you that make me beam (in no particular order): You're kind-hearted.  You're empathetic. You're open-minded. You're skeptical. You treat women with respect. You're witty. You're a leader.  You have a great sense of humor. You're open to new experiences. You seek opportunities.  You know when to keep your mouth shut. You know when to speak up.  You're non-judgmental. You're your own person.   As  your 19th birthday approaches, I need you to know I'...