My oldest son, Tyler James, turns half a decade old today and I am grateful that I am here to be a part of it.  It was not long ago I feared my incarceration would prove to remove me from days such as this one.  I cannot express my deepest gratitude in words for this.  Just know I am blessed.

I remember the day five long years ago (which really started the night before) in which my big headed son struggled to emerge into the world and claim his stake in history.  His big head forced us to cut him out of the womb and the doctor made a small slice right above his eye.  He was stabbed before ever entering the world.  But hey.  No one ever said life was easy.  A valuable lesson was learned by my wife and I, in that no matter how much you plan for an event and map it out, things can AND WILL change.  You are somewhat powerless over certain things in that respect.

After an enduring labor process and facing the disappointment of having to surgically remove Tyler from his mother, we got what we came for.  A healthy and happy baby boy.  He has grown SO much in the past five years and it has been an honor to get to know him and help him develop his vision of the world.  I am amazed at the clarity in which he sees the world and often am amazed at his ability to simplify this ever complex planet and its inhabitants.  I think he has taught me more than I could ever teach him.

So on this day I pause to love my son and honor his becoming my son, my friend, and my teacher.  May the next five years be as enlightening as the first.  Life is truly amazing sometimes.