The Vote
November 4, 2008
Dear Wiley,
In the days leading up to the election, you were learning about how our government functions. The school was getting the kids interested in the elections and even letting them simulate participation. The older kids wrote debates, and kids could campaign for their favorite candidate. Every student also got to vote.
On November 4th, you came home with pride in your eyes. You couldn't stop talking about your day. You were so glad that you got to vote. You told me all about the debates. (I actually was at the school to hear two of the arguments.) You were one of only two students that voted for Barack Obama in your classroom. I'm so proud that you voted for who you wanted to, and that you were not afraid to be different and to think differently from the "crowd." This attribute will serve you well in the years to come.
That night, while Dad and I were upstairs hanging shelves in the playroom, you were the one downstairs watching the numbers come in on CNN. You kept running in and giving us the update on who was winning the election. Finally, you came in to tell us Barack Obama had won the whole thing and you were so happy that you voted for him.
When I asked you why you voted for Barack Obama, you got out your yellow, 1990s GameBoy Pokemon game and told me there was a Pokemon character that looked like Barack (which, I can verify, actually does look like Barack), and that there is a Pokemon card with the word "Rock" in it.
Wiley, my sweet boy, you voted for Barack because of your love and devotion for all things Pokemon. Dad and I laughed and laughed. We all stayed up and watched John McCain's concession speech and Barack Obama's acceptance speech together. You listened to every word.
Wiley, please stop growing up. It is moments like these that I realize that you are not my little "Frogger" anymore. I worry that my time with you is passing too quickly. Even at age six you have found your little voice, and this is not the first time. Thanks for being the boy that you are, -- sensitive, outgoing, strong in your convictions, a leader, and so full of energy (as any primary worker can attest). Thanks for the little hugs and kisses that you offer me just because you are happy. Everyday with you is such a gift, I just wish I acted like it more often. I love being your mother. I promise to buy you more Pokemon cards if you just stay my little "Scooby."
I love you,
Mom
10 years ago
6 comments:
Reading your blog about Wiley gave me a few moments of retrospect with my own children. Yes, you grew up too soon. No, I probably didn't spend enough time appreciating the little things about each one of you. Yes, I was very pleased with each step of growth, each new thing learned, every single hug and kiss. I think it is wonderful to take a moment to see all the great things Wiley is doing--for tomorrow he will be leaving on a mission, and soon after that he will be teaching his own son! Good job Sharalee! you are doing a great job of raising your children.
that is such a cute letter. wiley has some great thoughts.
i agree that it's not fair how fast growing up happens.
i hope i am taking it all in as it is happening.
miss you.
hey will you be in reno for thanksgiving?
A perspective I have yet to learn.... I was thinking this morning actually that the next time there is a presidential election this baby will be about 4, and I'll have another 2 year old, and possibly be pregnant again. I hope that I will take the time to appreciate and love each step in my children's lives like you do.
What a sweet letter! What a kid! He is so funny!
So sweet. Makes me want to really be a FULL-TIME mom and tend to my children 24/7.
So so cute. What a smart little guy you have. I loved the letter. I write letters to my girls too, and I just hope it means a lot to them one day. Go Pokemon!
Post a Comment