To my son

It’s okay to say you’re feeling sad,

It’s okay to let it show.

It’s okay to ask for a warm embrace,

It’s okay to let it go.

It’s not okay to hold it in

And not let yourself feel the things you feel,

Because I’m here to help you navigate this tough road and give you love that’s real.

I know you feel like things are changing

And out of your control and grasp,

And it’s normal to feel like things are going wrong

But this will all come to pass.

You’re still a great person and a strong man

If you cry or feel afraid,

You are human and a child of God,

In His image you were made.

Respect yourself, who you are and what you will become,

And if you see someone else cry,

You’ll see yourself and know that kindness is easy to give,

No need to ask why.

Know that even when things are tough and hard to feel like you have control

Take baby steps and don’t forget

To have courage and be confident —

Soon, it’ll get better, you’ll be on a roll.