“How should I know?  I’m twelve and I love to read.  It’s probably going to be another twelve years until I actually know what I’m going to do,” I answered, bewildered because I never really thought about that yet.

“Well, with that mind of yours, I’m sure you can do anything you put your mind towards,” Aunt Linda said.

And like that, it seemed the festivities were over.  Everybody calmed down; mother and father cuddled together on the couch, they started to watch a movie.  Bryan and Kenny decided to go into the basement and play some air hockey, Charlotte followed.  Briana decided to play with Grandmom and Grandpop, who did their best playing hide and seek with her.  Uncle George and Aunt Linda sat down in the kitchen with Grandad and Grammy, talking about politics or something like that.

I brought the books I got up to my room and put them in the bookshelf, which was already overflowing with books.  I took one of my new books titled “The Lost of the Lot.”  I opened the front cover to read the summary; however there was a note written on the inside.

It read…

“Dearest son, Happy Birthday.  I have seen you grow since you were born.  It has been my honor to raise a son like you.  You have a great mind, and I see how much you love to read.  Never underestimate that you’re future is not bright, because it is.  Even though you likely have no idea what you’re going to do, I know you will find something that you will love to do and that you will do amazing things in that profession.  Your mother and I love you so much.  You are our child and what’s not there to love about you.  Even when you make a mistake, we still love you.  You know your mother and I will always be here for you, wherever you may go.  We will do what we can to help you and love you in any way.  You are such an amazing son, and I just pray that you can just grow as you have and that you will live a wonderful life. 

As always, with Love

Your Father

A tear fell from my face.  I didn’t even turn the book to the first page.  I just left it closed.  I walked back downstairs, and went to both father and mother.

“I love you guys,” I said, hugging them all the while.

As I walked away, I knew they smiled. 

Oh what would I do without you guys?  I thought.

My room was nice and quiet.  I pulled open the covers and laid down on my bed.  I looked up at my clock.  It seemed to have stopped at two o’clock. 

Well, whatever I thought.

I dozed into a trance and left the night to my dreams, and how awesome today will be.