Dear little one,
Tonight, as part of our usual bedtime routine, I pulled down your cheerful shade, dressed you in your cozy pajamas, and we sang our favorite lullaby, “Twinkle, Twinkle.” But tonight felt profoundly different. As I closed that shade, it felt as heavy as a mountain, and it’s no surprise why: we are embarking on a new journey. It’s a weighty decision, and my heart aches.
This evening marks the last time I will say, “I’ll see you in the morning when you wake up” as I close this door, which has held so many cherished memories. This is the door through which you first entered your room on that unforgettable day we brought you home. It’s the same door we rushed through to share your very first Christmas. It’s where you enjoyed your first night away from us after we stopped co-sleeping. And now, my darling, it represents a significant change: it will be the last night you spend under one roof with both Mom and Dad. I need to tell you, in a way that’s gentle yet honest, that we will no longer be living together. I’m so sorry for the sadness this brings.
When I closed that door tonight and heard you call out “Daddy,” my heart shattered a little too.
I’ve spent countless sleepless nights trying to find the right words to explain this to you in a way that won’t worry you. My intent is to convey that you are deeply loved by both of us, even though we’ll be living just down the street from each other. Yet, I feel like a fraud because this situation is painful, and it feels like we’ve failed as a family. Perhaps I need to have this conversation with myself first.
It may appear that we’ve failed at times, and in some aspects, we have. But in the grand scheme of things, we haven’t. We can’t afford to because you, my love, are the one constant worth fighting for.
Please understand that Mommy made this choice from a place of love for everyone involved. We all deserve happiness, peace, and respect. More importantly, I want to model for you what true love looks like—not a façade of happiness for the sake of appearances. That’s why I’m committed to being real and honest, even if it means making tough choices for our family’s wellbeing.
Who we are as individuals shapes who we are as parents, my little love. I vow to be the best version of myself for you. I want you to learn from my example that doing the right thing isn’t always the easiest path, and that you should never accept a situation or relationship that doesn’t honor your worth.
Goodnight, my sweet boy. May your dreams be filled with the innocence of childhood, whether you’re at Mom’s place or Dad’s. No matter where you rest your head, love envelops you.
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In summary, this letter reflects a heartfelt message from a parent to a child about the impending changes in family dynamics due to separation, emphasizing love, support, and the importance of self-worth.