Here's to Life, my dearest son!

This picture was taken the day you stuck the apple seed up your nose.
 You were certain even then of what you were doing…until it got stuck.
 Then you were even more certain an apple tree was going to sprout from your head.
 And once again I held you in my arms as tears ran down your cherub-like cheeks,
 Rocking you, consoling you, and wanting to laugh so hard my side hurt.
 Nope, no apple tree sprouted from your head, but your imagination, creativity,
 And ability to create wild tales were evident even then.
 So tomorrow I watch my little Mr. Apple Seed graduate from college,
 And as I do, I would be remiss in sending you off without a few “pearls of wisdom”.
 Never say anything you don’t mean.
 Never forget to say what you do mean.
 And don’t be mean.
 Remember to keep a sense of empathy in a world that lacks it, 
A sense of humor in a world that needs it,
 A sense of humility in a world that could use it,
 And a few cents in your pocket to call mom if pay phones still exist.
 Appreciate what you have in life rather than bemoaning what you don’t,
 And always remain true to yourself.
 Most of all, when life gets rough,
 Which it has a habit of doing,
 Always remember the apple seed story, smile, take a deep breath,
 And remember that mom left a kiss in your hand for love and strength.
Congratulations, Harrison!