The Wonderful Joy of a Family

by Kai Sinclair

In 1999, my mom published an article in The Catholic News entitled ‘The Wonderful Joy of Child’. As I read it years later, I questioned, do they still feel this same joy?

She ended the article by saying: “Her father and I love her very much… We hope that the end result will be a happy, contented child, willing to love others as she herself has experienced love.”

Mom and Dad,

I am writing to you 27 years later to say yes, I am happy; I am content; And I have loved others because, as I have experienced your love.

Thank you for being patient and kind. For not being envious, boastful, or proud. For not dishonoring others, not being self-seeking, and not being easily angered. For not keeping record of wrongs but instead rejoicing in truth; always protecting, always trusting, always hoping, and always persevering.

Some of my favourite childhood memories are of us attending Mass at St Paul’s RC Catholic Church. Back then, my favourite part was being piggybacked across the road for doubles after church. As time passed, our lifestyles changed, and even our parish changed, but one thing remained constant: we went to Mass together. And over time, my understanding, and love for it grew.

Thank you for giving me one of the greatest advantages in life: a Catholic foundation.

Thank you for placing me in communities that shaped my beliefs and grounded my faith. I didn’t fully understand the importance of that foundation until I moved abroad and had to navigate life on my own. Thank you for always proving to me that you are only one flight away, it means everything.

My prayer is that one day, I can be as selfless a parent as you both have been, able to raise a child who feels safe in every way, deeply loved, and truly cared for.

Love,

Kai