4/30/21

Dear Atlas,

It’s me, your Dad.

These past few days have felt like weeks. Your Mom and I both thought you’d be here by now, but it looks like there are still several days (or even weeks) left.

Looking back at the entire journey of your gestation, I feel at peace knowing you’ll be here soon. The peace comes from knowing all of this effort was worth it because you’re worth it.

I think a lot about all the moments and memories you and I will inevitably share as Father and Son. On the one hand, I think of the “big” memories; major life events, firsts, and even our goodbyes.

However, life happens in the little moments. And those little moments should never be underestimated, Atlas.

Just like somebody can fall in love with one glance, life has a lot of beauty in the moments between the moments.

It’s little things that swell my heart, like when your Mom just came into the room and asked me to open a food container for her.

You’ll find this out when you get older, but it means a lot for a man to feel useful. It’s the equivalent of feeling sexy—only way better, because you’re doing something.

Atlas, I often struggle to feel like I’ve made the best choices in life. Sometimes regret overtakes me, I look back at choices only I can recall, and the pain is overwhelming. Today isn’t one of those days.

I look at you, cradled beautifully inside of your Mother, and realize how perfectly my life has aligned to come to this point.

I’m falling in love all over again. This time, it’s with you—and our new family.

Love,

Dad