ODE TO MY SON
11th of August 1981, you were born. I was so very happy and directly full in love with you. For me you were the most beautiful and beloved baby on earth. You were a happy little boy, like you were saying to the world: here I am , be happy with me. You were an adorable little boy full of energy and creativity. Discover your way. You had a broad interest in your playing: books, sand, water, playing in the wood, painting, playing outside, playing with dolls, cooking etc. There were many friends, boys and girls, around you. Joris the creator, always active and full of ideas. When you grew up there were of course difficult moments in your life but you never hid from this but faced the difficulties. You lived through your grief and shared your problems with me. I feel so grateful for your love and trust in me.
Grown up you were going your own way. Discovering the world in all her facets: First time living on your own in Amersfoort, discovering Amsterdam nightlife with Koos, studying in Utrecht and Maastricht and many more places in the world. And finally you were setting up Deltaworkers in New Orleans and finding the love of your life there. Still you have many interests in art, literature, music and people. These are food for the soul in all its beauty. At the sideline I have followed you as much as I could. Know dear Joris your adventures and experiences filled my heart with love and proud, thanks for sharing your beauty of life. Now you are man of dear Brooke and papa of adorable and lovely Juno, living in New Orleans. Far away in miles but always nearby in my heart. Your family, Brooke and Juno are very important for you and you love them so much. I can see/feel that on skype and hear the words you are saying. It’s painful for us all we can’t visit you so much. I have my sad moments just like you. But I am so very happy we have skype and the moment will come we visit you all. Joor, YOU …being my son is for me one of the best and happiest parts of my life. I still love you as much as we met the 11th of August 1981. Sunshine!
Wish you a great 40th birthday with Brooke, Juno, family and friends around you. Enjoy your day. Always in my heart. Love Mom.