What a year we've had, Conor... It was January 2nd, 2012 the day you arrived home, merely one day past the start of the new year. This would be a year that would be rife with new experiences and a new understanding of what life is. Or rather, what I believe life should be... Full, vivacious, exciting, challenging, and wonderful. Bringing home a little boy would provide that, Son.
When we left the hospital I was as nervous as I was excited. Simply getting you down the road in our truck changed my perception of every single person on the road. Cautious and on edge, I drove the trusty Tahoe like an old woman, never breaking the speed limit and gripping the steering wheel as though it might jump out of the car if I dared let it go. What's more, everyone was an enemy. People driving to fast or to slow seemed like potential dangers to me. I was on high alert, Son. And I was going to get you home safely come what may...
Fortunately I was able to complete the mission and we arrived safely home in the early afternoon; just in time to see Winter Classic! Yes sir, your first sporting event was a much anticipated hockey game between Mommy's Philadelphia Flyers and their nemesis rival, the New York Rangers. A great way to come into your new home! But I digress... It was that homecoming that changed me more in a moment than at any other period of time in my life because you're being walked through the front door of our house was the first time I ever felt as though the word 'home' ever truly applied.
A house is only structure. People can occupy a house and they can call it home, but home is defined as "the place where one's domestic affections are centered", and if there's anything that can center a man, it's the love he holds for his child. And without question, I'm sure Mommy feels the same, but I can't speak for her. Never the less, it's not about "stuff". It's not about material. It's not about just having a place to share. No Conor, a home is about love. On that day, I got it. I really and truly GOT IT. I understood for the first time what it means to be home...
From then on each and every experience was not only new, but eye popping. In many respects it was what I believe so many would consider a rebirth. For the World was new again and my focus was changed and my understanding of what's important and what's not became as clear as night and day.
Yes Conor, 2012 taught me a great many things. 2012 opened my eyes as well as my heart. 2012 set the table for what's to come; both in terms of what to expect as well as what to consider. 2012 taught me humility and showed me grace. 2012 was the year that I was reborn. As a man, as a father, as a husband, and as a friend. 2012 was a year to remember, and for a great many reasons beyond even you.
And so now, on the eve of this, the year of our Lord two thousand and thirteen, I reflect, I reminisce, I remember, I recount, and I realize I'm better for it. All of it. And certainly, I have you to thank for so much of that. Thank you, Conor.
Let's make dreams come true in the new year, shall we? Seeing as how we're already doing it, and getting pretty good at doing it, too.
I love you, Son.
-Dad
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