Dear Little One,
When you first came into my life, I was at a loss about how to care for you. I had little experience with babies, but I quickly adapted. I learned the ropes of diaper changes, bottle warming, bathing you, and dressing you in your adorable outfits.
Now that you’re 3, we can have conversations. You share your thoughts and feelings, and those moments when you spontaneously declare your love for me truly make my day. I love you in ways that you won’t fully grasp until you have children of your own—just like I didn’t understand until you entered my world.
One of your most frequent requests is to play. Sometimes, your mom and I find ourselves caught up in evening chores, leaving little time for the fun we both desire. We always ensure you have a nutritious dinner, and while we prepare the meal, you often engage in your “projects” or—on rare occasions—watch a little television. I admire your patience during these times.
Lately, our after-dinner ritual has evolved into epic wrestling matches. You love to pretend we’re lions from The Lion King—me as Scar and you as Simba—battling for control of our couch, which transforms into Pride Rock. Occasionally, we switch up the roles and become different animals like rhinos or hippos. What matters most to you is the fun we have rolling around on the living room carpet.
When playtime is up, I can see your disappointment. You stomp your feet, wanting just a bit more time to wrestle. Your mom and I strive to be firm, especially as bedtime approaches. We often negotiate for one last minute of wrestling before I challenge you to a race up the stairs in preparation for sleep.
Your persistent requests to play are endearing. Still, I can’t help but ponder why this is so meaningful to you. What thoughts cross your mind when I have to decline your invitation? I’ve reflected on how you perceive the world since the very beginning, but I regret not considering how I might be seen through your eyes until now.
What do you feel when I explain that I can’t play right now? Can you sense my genuine desire to spend more time with you? When you get upset at the end of our play, do you understand my reasoning? Are you aware of the worries I carry about your well-being—your meals, sleep, friendships? Do you know the weight of responsibility I feel for your life?
You hold the answers to these questions. Yet, through your actions and words, it’s clear that our time together holds immense value for you. I often find myself lost in the complexities of adulthood, while your world is simple and joyful. You live in the moment, and I plan to join you there more often.
Just the other evening, I was busy chopping vegetables, listening to music, chatting with your mom, and even contemplating future plans for our family, including your future sibling. While I was distracted by a recipe on my phone, you persisted in trying to get my attention.
“Daddy.”
“Daddy.”
“Daddy!”
Finally, I looked up, and with a sly grin, you asked, “Do you wanna wrestle?”
“Absolutely, I’ll wrestle with you.”
With love,
Dad
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Summary
In this heartfelt letter, a father reflects on the joys and challenges of parenting a 3-year-old. He shares his experiences of learning to care for his son, the importance of playtime, and the emotional connections they share. Despite the busyness of adult life, he vows to prioritize moments of play and connection, understanding their significance in his child’s world.