Susan Narjala
Keeping it Real
A Letter to My Son on His 18th Birthday
Hey kid,
We’re actually here.
The moment we cut those apron strings. The moment we launch you into the world. The moment you step into adulthood.
You may be ready. But guess what? Your mama’s not quite there yet.
When I wrote those letters to you back when you turned nine and thirteen, they were words I strung together to build you up. This feels more like words to let you go. Honestly, this letter may be more for me than for you.
But here goes anyway. (Big emotions up ahead! Consider yourself warned.)
First off, can I just say how absolutely, incredibly proud Dada and I are of you?
It’s been our privilege to watch you grow into a wise, thoughtful, mature, godly, and kind young man. They don’t make ‘em like you anymore.
Yeah, I’m definitely biased. But, hey, I’ve seen other kids your age. There are so many factors that set you apart, beginning with your startling humility.
You invest long hours in your schoolwork and ace those computer science tests—but you don’t feel the need to advertise your achievements.
You work your magic with a few strokes of a pen, capturing the manic emotions and rippling muscles of superheroes and villains—but you never feel the need to post pictures on social media for ‘likes’.
You’ve read more books in 18 years than I can in a lifetime—but you never sprinkle that fact into conversation just so others know you’re smart.
You’ve diligently committed to eating clean and working out—but, while you’re proud of your one-handed pushups, you’re also fairly nonchalant about them.
You’ve never desired the spotlight. You’ve never wanted the latest gadget. You’ve never needed the biggest brands.
You are content to stay in the background because your identity is rooted in Christ.
Baptizing you and your sister a few months ago was one of the sweetest moments of our lives. That was a milestone moment for you. But God used it to remind me that you belong to Him. He knew I needed that reminder as you step into adulthood.
As you leave home for university in the US, my assurance doesn’t come from whether we’ve done a fab job raising you. (Goodness knows, I’ve messed up/yelled/overprotected you/zoned out more often than I’d like to admit.)
My peace comes from knowing that you are held by your Savior.
I’m not going to say, “You’ve got this.”
But I am going to say, “He’s got you!”
Continue to find your security in that.
As you leave the nest, I’d love to leave with one statement: Remember who you are and Whose you are.
Those two truths will steady you through the storms.
When friends leave, when you feel alone or overwhelmed, when you face rejection, when you mess up—all of those things are “whens” and not “ifs”—your sense of identity and belonging in Christ will keep you going.
So continue to be gentle in spaces that reward brashness.
Speak quietly in places where loudness is lauded.
Move at your own pace in a world that is always rushing.
Keep making space for deep work, for books, for art, for thought. And always carve out those times alone with God so He can fill you with His truth.
Meanwhile, thank goodness for the “Find My” app because I may or may not be tracking your movements from halfway across the world. I’ll be “learning” to let go for the foreseeable future. Just sayin’.
You’re one of our biggest more-than-we-asked-or-imagined blessings.
As I used to say when I tucked you in at night: Remember, Dada and I love you. But Jesus loves you even more.
Mama
If this blog resonated with you, SUBSCRIBE to my weekly newsletter. I would love a Facebook or Instagram follow or share if you’re on social media.
MEET SUSAN
Comments
13 Comments
Thara
Dear Susan,
It was so much like you were talking to me..so many things I needed to hear …that I have done my best and God will do the rest.
God bless
Ranjini Iyer
As always, Susan u have captured the essence of life and its meaning. In God’s hands your son, wherever he is will be safe, happy and thrive 💕
Ranjini Auntie
Susan Narjala
Thank you, Aunty Ranjini. 🙂
Deirdre inamdar
Susan I teared up as I read your letter to Yohan. It brought to mind the pain I experienced when I let Aaron and Rumela go when they were his age. We help our children grow wings and when they spread them and soar it’s time for us to be joyful.
Wishing Yohan all the very best may he have a wonderful learning experience.
Lots of love and God Bless.
Susan Narjala
Thank you so much, Aunty Deirdre. We’re going to be empty nesters in about a year and a half with both kids gone. But the Lord keeps reminding me that they belong to Him. Much love, Susan
Ted Senapatiratne
Thank You Susan for sharing this with us. I wondered was this what my Mom felt when I first left for Bible College in India in 1962 and to the USA in 1969?
How have my wife and I done letting our two sons leaving home (both are 50 years now – long story).
God is Good and it’s very evident you have done a great job in parenting! Thank You for being vulnerable! Blessings and prayers for your family!
Susan Narjala
Thank you for sharing, Ted. I’m sure every generation has found it incredibly hard to let go of our kids. But God is gracious. Taking baby steps. And enjoying the moments of being a full-time mom till he leave for Indiana in August. Blessings, Susan
Bhawna Shetty
That is such a sweet letter, Susan. Loved reading every word. Amazed at the talents hidden in your dear son. So proud of him, and of you both too. You have done so well. I know it’s Jesus and His grace, but He needed you to partner with Him. Glad He gave you and your son to each other. We’re blessed because of it. Our best wishes and prayers are with Yohaan. Blessings, Bhawna and Santosh.
Susan Narjala
Aw! Thanks Bhawna. Really appreciate your kind words and encouragement. Thank you for your prayers for Yohan. Blessings, Susan
Heli Kath
Wow! Susan, what a lovely note.
I am loving reading your blogs
God bless
Susan Narjala
Thanks so much, Heli! Blessings, Susan
Jacob
Your wonderful thoughts and words have touched my heart
Susan Narjala
Thank you, father 🙂