they don't say they're sorry
they don't forgive
they're not courteous
they play head games
they don't see other's views,
only their own
they overstep their bounds and
don't know their place
they overstep their bounds and
don't know their place
they let their ego get in the way
of doing what's right
When my son was 16, almost 17, he wanted a tattoo very much. I didn't care for them at all, so my first response was, "I don't think so." He finally talked me into it, and the place he went to required a parent's consent, as he wasn't 18 yet. He was going to get a cross, and I told him that if he ever got the holy cross on his arm, he better know what it means. So, through a hand written letter, he told me what the cross meant to him. I'd like to share it with you, and it is special to me because it comes from my son who was only about 16 at the time he wrote it.
My initial want of a tattoo was for the looks of it, otherwise why would someone want one at all? But as my thoughts grew and grew, my priorities changed. I didn't only want a good looking tattoo, in fact I didn't care much about that at all. I wanted something that was permanently on my body to represent pure beauty, love, and joy, and all the good things the world and life has to offer. What better thing than a cross? Now I can admit that my first tattoo selection was not a cross, but that was the only thing you allowed me to get. But as my thoughts changed my selection did as well, and right now in my life I would want no other tattoo than a cross whether I was twelve or twenty. Jesus suffered the worst of deaths on the holy cross to make people recognize their sins, cast them away, and live a pure, beautiful life as he did. As the Catholic religion grew they made the cross a holy symbol, not only to remember Jesus by his death and sacrifices, but to remember his wonderful life, teachings, and contributions to mankind in general. A mankind that was falling swiftly. By God giving his only son to mankind he showed us that we are special creatures and should live life to the fullest and as wonderful as Jesus did. The cross is a symbol to remember Jesus' sacrifices, teachings, and life, and it is a symbol to other humans that we are all brothers in this beautiful gift called "life" so act accordingly.
My son......oh yes, he has faults and imperfections, but he knows how to love, he knows how to live with peace in his heart, and I believe that is the most precious way to live.
~Sheri
25 comments:
Dear Sheri, you've taught your son well. I hope he always believes these words that he wrote. It does seem like people in general are less polite and more inconsiderate and rude, and I hate to say who's to blame, but his name starts with a T. ;-) Much Love.
He got it right. And the tattoo that we wear is the mark of being His children, if we believe. Faith is our ticket, our "tattoo" if you will, hope our connecting flight, and love our destination. Yep, your son, he got it right.
I know what you mean about "real life people."
To use your word "lately" I feel the world is in turmoil, perhaps that is too strong a word ... but we have seen so much change and uncertainty.
We each have our own faith, thoughts, belief to help us through each day and we do need to give thought to our neighbour, our friends and all others. But we each have to do this, and there are those who seem to be able to do this more easily than others.
The words your son wrote - I am pleased you shared them with us.
My good wishes
All the best Jan
Hi Sheri, oops ... I seem to have mis-interpreted your words here, but I still think the world is a little bit crazy at times ...
Sorry you are experiencing bad manners.
Thanks for the recent comment on the low carb diabetic blog - I hope you have a good week and may experience better manners with some of the real life people you know.
All the best Jan
What a faith filled letter your young son wrote. You must be very proud of him. Even though I'm not a fan of tattoos, I believe young folks are looking for a way to choose their own unique identity. That's a difficult thing for a parent to watch, but watch and guide we must. Hugs to you, my friend. ♥
Very well written, moving letter, especially coming from a teenager. No wonder you gave in regarding his having a tattoo. It seems to me that as a parent you know well how to set boundaries.
Wow, you raised a fine young man and he's so right on. I just wish a lot of other young people would catch on to this. Wonderful, inspiring post. Love you my dear friend. xo
What wonderful words coming from especially a teenager. I know it made you proud.
Have a great week and don't let anyone get you down. I have found that at this stage of my life, the negativity just doesn't cut it. If someone is always negative, it rubs off and I don't have time for that. So go for the good!!
Judy
Judy said it right. You raised your son well. My son wanted one also when he was about 16 or 17 and I said NO. As long as you live in my house the answer is no. Now he said mom I am so glad you wouldn't let me get a tattoo.
I don't have time for negative and mean people, life is to short. If you can't be nice, stay at home.
Have a great week Sheri.
Hugs,
Mary
Thank you so much for sharing this! You were very wise in asking for the letter and it's evident your son inherited that trait. His words are beautifully written and I can only imagine your pride!
Please don't let the naysayers get you down! Life is too short for drama, chaos and negativity. I don't want that in my space...or yours. Feel free to move away from this type of behavior.
xo
Pat
Sheri, Very deep for such a young man. I do not care if people get them. I am just not a fan myself. I am glad you keep your son's letter. So wise of you to make him truly think before getting his tattoo. Blessings, love xoxo, Susie
Thanks for sharing this special letter with us, Sheri. It is a challenge to make our way in this world gone wrong, to do it with grace is rare indeed.
Amalia
xo
What a wonderful Letter. The Cross looks perfect :)
lovely Greetings <3
You have raised a very thoughtful son, Sheri, and well done you. He wrote so well of his beliefs, amazing for a young teen, and what a note to treasure. His cross is quite beautiful - and I don't like tattoos either but his choice was excellent. Thank you for sharing this special story.
Your post really hit home with me. Several years ago, my youngest pleasantly announced he wanted to get a tattoo. Now, mind you, he was a college graduate, a married man and by then a father. I couldn't believe my clean cut, well behaved, non-rebellious son wanted to get a tat! Well, he did and he actually worked with the tattoo artist to get exactly what he wanted...it is a Celtic cross, open to where Jesus' eyes are looking through it...quite elaborate...and LARGE, covering his whole bicep. He said basically the same thing your son did (in his own words) to me after he got it. I was never more proud of him. Thanks for sharing your story :)
Hi Sheri,
The relationship you have with your son is so special to me. As a mom of two boys I pray for the same.
xx oo
Carla
This is beautiful what your son wrote. I'm sorry that people are being imp-ish to you, that is a reflection of their state of mind ,not yours. Even though it is hard when others are unkind keep your heart a glow with your kindness and love, don't let them harden your beautiful soul. Remember this too shall pass..hugs.
Sheri, Your son has written the most beautiful letter to you. I know you will cherish it forever. I love his tattoo, it is so special, like him. You have a Wonderful son!! Thanks for sharing ♥
Hugs, Jody
Hi dear Sherl ,, que buen tatuaje m,, espero que tengas un buen día
Cariños
That letter is a special treasure, indeed. Thank you for sharing something so personal.
Bespoken words of a young man wise beyond his years and testimony to his faith and love for Jesus Christ. An icon, the cross, that exemplifies strength, resilience, and the everlasting testiment to Christ's selflessness and the forgiveness of our sins. His letter so compelling that it should be shared with the world, especially to those in most dire need of salvation.
A truly heartfelt letter written with such genuity that with your permission I would love to share with the young men that I work with who suffer from drug and alcohol abuse.
Thank you Sheri, for sharing with us so intimate a letter and memory. I hope that you soon find respite from those who choose the wayward path and that you find solace and comfort in those who genuinely care for you.
All My Best,
Dave
p.s. I am no longer on the Team Vintage Vertigo blog, but you can find me at any of my other three blogs.
Dave
Wowwwww Amen !...to That ...love happy summer Ria x
Sheri you are such a beautiful mother.... and these words from your son are precious in their reflection of his soul, yours, and the love of God. Thank you for sharing and all that you give to the world. Your love ripples far and heals. I love you too. Very very much.
Thank you for sharing this touching and eloquent post filled with the love of a Mother and her son.
All of your children are a beautiful extension of you and your goodness.
Keep doing what you are doing my friend and sharing light, hope and love.
Love,
Jemma
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