Sam,
Today you turn 15. It's actually easy to believe because you have seemed older than 14 all year. The past year has been a good one for you. You skipped 8th grade and started 9th grade in the fall. You are still swimming year round but this spring you played flag football. I was so proud of your decision to do something new. You made all As this year and did well on your first try at the PSAT.
You are still best friends with Mattox. I am so glad the 2 of you are so close. You don't really let many people in, but he is one person who knows you very well. This spring, you went to Rome. You seemed to really enjoy traveling and I hope that trip opens up a desire for you to travel more as you grow older.
Sam, you are a really great kid. I hope that as you grow older, you grow deeper in your walk with Jesus. I pray you find your identity and confidence in Him. I pray He is the only one you look to for validation. I pray that when you are struggling, you run to Him. I pray against pride and the idolatry of self reliance. I love you and can't wait to see what year 15 holds for you.
Love always,
Mom
