Dad of two boys.

Dearly Beloved,

I am writing this letter of love to you as dad of two boys. My sons are so precious to me and I would do anything to protect them from hurt and harm. One of the humbling things as a parent is to realize that I can't protect them from all the things that might cause them pain. Just last night, my 11 year-old came home from a school dance in tears as he felt deeply the rejection from several friends and wondering where he fits into the school social order. It absolutely broke my heart.

If you are reading this letter at a difficult time in your life, I am so sorry for your challenge and hurt. I wish I could wrap you up in a big hug while fending off all the forces that would cause you distress. There's a bit of papa bear in me that wants to unleash a big growl and rise up to my full height scaring off all that threatens the vulnerable in the world. All that threatens you.

Well, as much as I play out my papa bear fantasy to protect my vulnerable LGBTQIA+ siblings, I am ultimately not all that powerful. I'm not even able to protect the two cubs that live under my own roof! I do know, however, our heavenly Papa/Mama Bear. Our God loves you deeply, deeply, deeply. Just as you are. Our heavenly Papa/Mama Bear wraps us up in a warm embrace when we come home from that dance feeling rejected and alone. We are not alone. We are NEVER without love.

I am writing this letter to you to remind you of your belovedness. As a vulnerable cub making his way in the world, I need to hear that as much as anyone else.

Much love to you today, fellow cub!

Love,

Bill Hutchinson