Letter to Shivansh on your eight birthday

Dearest cuddly bear,

Happy 8th Birthday!

You will be squished, kneaded, and snuggled no matter how much you hate it. My gifted child, you make me proud. Of course, you draw so well, but you are such a sharp visual learner. You are always drawing things you find interesting and things that get your attention. However, the issue is finding a piece of your drawing sneaked in every corner of the house.

With a deep sense of music, you have a knack for rhythm, love to tango, and make us laugh. As much as I sort of like the character you introduced, Bendy, the protagonist of the horror game series, I worry and wonder if it’s normal for someone your age to enjoy something so dark and grim.

As you laugh out loud as though there’s no tomorrow, I wish your liveliness is not lost to discipline, rules, and senseless benchmarks. Isn’t it ironic that we push you to follow the rules and chase more marks? We, unfortunately, live in a place that gauges the superficial and punishes if you’re naïve.

Let’s get outdoorsy, laugh more, be funny, hocus and focus, and not get lost in the futile race to achieve more. And just because you're not expressive (other than the time you wish to poop), doesn't mean you are loved any less. You are crazily loved, valued, and cherished every single microsecond.

From a mom who wishes you live life to the fullest knowing who you truly are! 

Shilpa