Lost Article

[Janet]

Long before my son was born almost 16 years ago, I came across a letter in Ann Landers that I clipped and kept in my wallet. I remember taking it out some time ago for safe keeping, but I can't find it. I want to share some of the highlights from it for you young mothers.

It was written by a much older mother who had passed away. Her daughter was going through her belongings when she found a letter her mother had written to her when she was very young, but never sent it.

The letter started: My darling daughter, I remember when I brought you home, you were our precious gift. As time went on, I remember thinking, if only you would walk and then, if only you could talk. Pretty soon you were walking and talking and and then you were going off for your first day of school.

Then I came home from the hospital with your baby sister and when I stood in the doorway and saw your precious face, I couldn't believe how big you were compared to the baby I was holding in my arms.

I realized how much of your babyhood I had wished away. Oh I know, there will be many good times ahead, and also bad. I know we will have our share of heated arguements and there will be times that I will wish you were off to college so I could be rid of you. Then, I will think back to that little face in the doorway and my heart will melt.

Please darling daughter, cherish every moment with your children and do not do as I did and wish time would hurry and pass, for it will never come back.

I kept that letter and I know it's still somewhere, but I read it often and that was one thing I never did....was wish time would hurry and pass as far as my son was concerned. I still can't believe he'll be 16 in December. How time flies. If this letter hasn't touched a nerve in you, then go back and look at your childs baby pictures.