I don’t talk about him much here, and when I do I try not to use his name, because I respect his privacy. Eighteen years ago today, my life got bigger, fuller, and happier. My son was born. There are bad days and good days. I choose not to focus on the bad, but on the good. He’s grown into such a wonderful and caring young man. While some young people just go through the motions and activities of becoming an Eagle Scout, my son truly lives those values every day.

He has found some true passions in life. While some may scorn his ‘addiction’ to video games, tech, and YouTube like any other Zoomer, it seems as though it is becoming his path in life. He recently got accepted to a prestigious tech college with the aim of becoming a game designer. He has achieved so much in his short 18 years, it blows my mind sometimes.

Throughout his years, he’s been mistaken for both older than his age – he’s very mature when compared to some of his peers – to younger than his age, because he’s always been a small guy and is only a bit taller than my 5’8”. He’s grown in so many other ways, and it’s how he has become a “stand up guy” as many of the kids at his school say.

Not only is it his 18th birthday, but it’s his Golden Birthday. It’s nothing special other than turning 18 on the 18th.

Happy 18th Birthday my golden boy!