Today, October 1st, 2020, my warrior Brendan Bjorn turns 16 years old. A direct descendant of Brian Boru, Rollo the Viking, Robert the Bruce, Kings and Lairds and Warriors down many centuries…to today, to him: My first born son, my Brendan Bjorn.

And today, he reaches an age I never thought – but had desperately hoped – he would see.

His body grows tired, as it does with any true warrior, with the passing of time. He’s fought so many battles. He continues to do so. But he is here today, his birthday, to celebrate 16 years of life. It’s a life which has brought to me indescribable love and lessons which could not have been taught if this journey was anything other than what it is. My son also gave to me the gift of becoming a mother. As I’ve always said, he has given me far more than I could ever give him, and it is true.

I started out on this journey with Brendan Bjorn wanting to give him the gift of healing. I prayed daily for a miracle for years on end. It wasn’t to be. That wasn’t his journey. It isn’t why he’s here. He is here to teach, to give, to love, and oh, how he has done just that. Beautifully.

16 years.
It’s been some journey.

This year has been like no other for all of us. 2020 has brought the world to spin upside-down in many ways. I won’t think on that today. Instead, I’ll relish in the gift that is my son and in his own special place in the history of this world. For he does have his place, just as all of those warriors from whom he has descended.

Happy 16th birthday, my heart, my son, my warrior, Brendan Bjorn.

I love you more than life itself.