My dearest Caleb,

I want to tell you a little story. It’s about a kid who didn’t believe she was anything more than average. Yeah, it’s about me {cue sad, slow violin music…}.

In school, we had to take some special tests. You will too. These tests are supposed to measure your aptitude or ability for subjects like math and reading. Guess how your mommy scored on those tests? Yep, you guessed it: average.

I spent my entire childhood believing I couldn’t do well in math or science because I wasn’t smart enough to understand it.  I accepted B’s and occasional C’s until my junior year of high school. There was a distinct turning point when one day I got a little extra help from the teacher and suddenly…it all made sense! I thought, wow…I AM capable of this! I’d never even given myself a chance. I made all A’s after that! Did I have to work a little harder than some of my peers? Yes, but it didn’t matter. I could do it!

You see, sometimes your weakness can actually be a strength.

Your dad scored really high on those tests you know. He’s so smart, but I excel in many areas that he doesn’t. My intelligence may be different than his, but I’m still smart. And so are you, even if you have to work harder at some things!

I want you to know that you can do anything you set your mind to. You are capable of greatness! Please don’t give up just because something is difficult. If I had believed in myself more and tried harder, I probably could speak Spanish right now.

Te amo mucho mi precioso hijo,

Mommy