Take Care of Him

When I dropped my first-born son in your care for his first week away at summer camp on Sunday, there were so many things I wanted to tell you.

It’s his first time. He’s shy. I’m worried he won’t sleep well. I hope he makes friends. I want him to have so much fun that it takes him a week to tell us all about it.

But I also wanted to tell you that this boy deserves this amazing week at camp. He totally deserves it. He needs a week to be without us, to just be Gabe, to just have fun.

He’s amazing.

I wanted to tell you that this boy is selfless; almost too much at times. He’ll let his brother pick the movie, the cereal, the prime seat in the car. He’ll do whatever it takes to make his sister smile. He’ll help around the house and not expect a thing in return. That’s the kind of boy he is.

He is so loved by his little brother, that the little one cried before bed the night before he left because he would miss him so much. He was sad and quiet on the ride home knowing his best friend and hero was not going to be with him for a week.

He is so loved by his big sister that I can’t even describe it to you. It’s impossible to put into words. Did I mention that she has a disability? He’s never bothered by her, never burdened by her, it wouldn’t even occur to him to be anything but a loving brother. He is, quite simply, her hero.

I wanted to tell you that he’s an old soul. He gets this life. He gets it. But I also wanted to tell you that, if you take the time to know him, he’s hilarious. And silly. And a sports nut. And an avid reader. And loves music. He’s always quick with a smile, with a joke, with a look that will make your heart melt.

I just wanted to tell you that my son is extra special. I know everyone says that, but in this case it’s true. He’s not only the most amazing boy I’ve ever known, he’s just an amazing person, no matter what age. His level of generosity, caring and loving is unmatched.

He’s my boy and I love him. Take care of him.