My Dear Sophia,
Thirteen. There are certain birthdays that feel like markers, and this is one of them. Not because everything suddenly changes overnight, but because it gives me a moment to pause and take in who you are becoming — and who you already are. And Sophia, you are a remarkable young woman.
What stands out most to me is not just what you do, but how you do it. You are a good sibling — patient, playful, and steady in ways that matter more than you probably realize to your mom and I. You are a good friend — the kind of person others feel safe with, the kind who shows up, listens, and makes people feel seen.
You have this beautiful instinct to be intentional, especially in the way you give gifts small and big. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift, or a small gesture, you are thinking about how to best love those in your life. You pay attention. That is a trait you should keep for life.
I’ve also watched how you open your heart to others, especially the children who come into our home through foster care. You don’t hold back your kindness. You make space. You make them feel welcome. You make them feel like they belong. That kind of compassion will shape lives in ways you may never fully see.
You are growing into someone we can trust — whether it’s caring for younger kids as a babysitter, showing responsibility in your schoolwork, or simply carrying yourself with a quiet confidence. And yet, alongside all of that, you are still full of fun and life. Your laughter, your energy, your ability to bring lightness into a room, those are gifts too.
As you step into your teenage years, my prayer for you is not that you would rush to grow up, but that you would stay grounded in who you are: kind, thoughtful, joyful, and strong. There will be moments ahead that stretch you, and moments that test you, but you already have within you the character to meet them well. That you remember that you can like what matters to you, and be kind to others, even if friends around you make a different decision.
That you don’t grow out of dance parties with your siblings, or valuing time with your mom at things like mother daughter camp, or asking me random questions when you get home from school. Although I could do with a few less random questions when you are 45 minutes past your bed time.
I hope you continue to be someone who welcomes others, who gives generously, who loves deeply, and who finds joy along the way. The world needs more of exactly who you are becoming.
I am so proud of you, Sophia. We love being your parents.
Happy 13th birthday.
Love always,
Dad
