Honoring the Journey: A Mother’s Letter to Her Son on His Unbirthday

Dear Bill,

As your "unbirthday" approaches, I find myself reflecting on everything that day means. Two years ago, life threw a curveball none of us saw coming. You faced down a saddle pulmonary embolism , something that should have taken you from us, but thankfully it didn’t.

Even though we all knew how serious it was, our lives were tangled in a million directions at the time, and it felt impossible to slow down. We were doing our best to support you from a distance, even though I wish we could have been closer, more present, more there for you. But you, in your quiet strength, kept moving forward. And I’m so grateful every single day that you did.

You’ve always been someone who lives with intention, but since that day, it’s as if you’ve embraced life with even more grace and purpose. You don’t seek out the spotlight—you never have. But I see you, Bill. I see how you’ve chosen to fill your days with joy, how you’ve deepened your connections with the people you love, how you’ve made time for the things that matter most to you.

That trip to Hawaii with Amy and me? It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a chance to truly connect, to create memories that will always mean so much to me. Those road trips you take, whether you’re with a friend or just your own thoughts for company—they’re a testament to your adventurous spirit, your love for exploring the world in your own way. I admire how you honor your passions, especially writing. Every single day, you sit down and put your thoughts on paper because it’s what you love. That’s something not many people can say.

I’m so proud of the way you’ve lived these last two years. You’ve taken what could have been a life-altering event and turned it into an opportunity to live more fully, to be more intentional with your time, your energy, your love. You’ve supported me and so many others with your kindness, your humor, and your unwavering presence.

I know you don’t want a big fuss, and I respect that. But I also want you to know how much I treasure you, how grateful I am that you’re here, living your life with purpose and joy. You’ve shown me what it means to truly live, to find light even in the hardest moments, and to keep going with grace.

So, on this "unbirthday," I just want to thank you. Thank you for being here, for being you, for bringing so much love and light into our family and into the world. You are an incredible person, Bill, and I’m beyond grateful to call you my son and my friend.

With all my love,

Mom 

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