Hey mom, it's me, Jonathan. Today marks ten years since you passed from this plane of existence. I thought about what I might do to mark the occasion, so I got this Bird of Paradise. I know those were always your favorite. I still can't believe it's been a whole decade without you. So much has changed, I barely even recognize my life from before.
Losing you was the hardest thing I had to go through, but you made it so much easier by going out with grace. You made a project out of dying, bravely confronting death with dignity and learning to let go. I watched you let go of all the trivialities and drama and face the really important things in life, clearing the air and making sure there was nothing left unsaid. This has had a more profound impact on me than I can ever express. I too have been learning to let go of the need for control, to embrace the power of surrender. Not perfectly by any means, but that lesson has been permanently impressed upon me.
I've had some roadblocks in life, and sometimes things seem like they're never going to change. I've always been a late bloomer, whether it's academic, social, or my career, and I've learned to be okay with that, because thanks to you, I've learned to trust. I've learned that the way out is the way through. And I know that I'm not alone in these struggles because you're with me.
I know that even in my toughest times, you're with me, watching over me. I know there's something beyond this world, because you've made your presence known time and again. I know I asked you before you went if you could send me signs, and I appreciate you doing that for me. It sounds like you got to meet my new girlfriend in dreamtime. She's great, isn't she? Glad you approve.
I miss you. Life hasn't been the same without you, but I continue to grow and learn and flourish into the person I was always born to be. I know you always supported me no matter where I was in life. Thank you for being the best mother I could ask for. I'll see you on the other side.