Letter 8

My dearest peapod,

I have learned in my lifetime that you can read a novel by looking into one's eyes.  I hope to raise you in a way that speaks of compassion and understanding so that when you look into another's eyes, you can see their joys, their aches, and their fears.You learn so much from others when you read their soul through the beauty of their irises.  Looking into yours, I see my own eyes looking back.  I read the excitement when you recognize your father's voice or you hear my laughter.

I often feel when I'm talking to people that I cannot allow them to see my eyes out of fear that they will judge me. I fear they will read too much and not understand the sorrows and loves of my life.  But above all, I fear they will just not care to read.  But, not you my bright-eyed child.  Your eyes are open and ready to read my soul from cover to cover.  You are excited to experience life for the first time, and I long to see the world through your innocent eyes.  Never lose that fervor to learn about others.  It will take you far in this life baby blue!

"Here's looking at you kid,"

Mommy