Dear One,

Jeanie and I have come to some pretty important conclusions as we've made our way through the tough parts of life. We've been scared and we've been unsure. We've been on a couple of brinks, but there have been ropes and anchors that kept us safe. Not that we knew what we were doing or that we planned ahead, but there were angels posing as parents, grandparents, sons, daughters, and friends who led us here to what we now regard as heaven on earth.

Heaven was brought to Jeanie and me by a thoughtful and compassionate creator. We thank our maker every day at least three times, but I know that's not nearly enough. We owe everything to someone else and we try to be grateful as much as we can.

Your parents have an angel in you. I've concluded you (and we) are not here to just be background characters in someone else's story, but instead we're main characters who have had an impact on everyone we've ever met (and they on everyone they have ever met). Everyone you have ever spoken to would be different without you. We're all connected in some way, and we are better because of you. Of course, your parents are better because of you, too. They're so fortunate. Just like us. Thank you for being an influence in our lives.

We pray that your tests and medical interventions bring you relief and good health. I believe the creator of the universe also created the answer to every question, the solution to every problem, and the cure for every affliction. Your cure has already been created. Although we will never be capable of understanding the details of creation, I believe our mission should be to start the search for answers and solutions and cures and never give up. Hoping and searching and never giving up are blessings, not burdens.

Love from Ed and Jean