When you smile

So son-
   Today, you're 5 weeks and 2 days old. You weigh a bit over 11 lbs and are about 22 inches long. Your cousin Ellery was born yesterday and im sitting here watching you sleep in your swing while Maria Sharapova plays in the Wimbledon final, look here up, she's pretty cute.
   This morning i woke up to come settle you down. You had a pretty busy night last, up and crying about every hour or so, wanting to eat or needing to burp. Your mom is pretty worn out at this point in the game, but its amazing how the moment she looks at you, her attitude changes. She really really loves you.
   So when I walked into your room this morning, you looked up and gave me the quickest little smile. and it just about made my heart burst. You haven't been an especially smiley baby thus far. You're pretty mild mannered. You don't really cry unless you're hungry or gassy, in fact most of the time you have this very analytical look on your face like you are pondering the deep mysteries of the universe or wondering why everyone around you is so ridiculous. And when you do smile alot of times it is when you are sleeping or gassy, but every once in a while you drop this adorable grin and your eyes squint up. Its pretty awesome.
   I think the reason your smile is so powerful is because its so rare, and every little grin you give is a glimmer of hope that you will have the joyful life that we so desire for you. There is much pain in life, much toil and grief, but all of that can be overcome by simple joy. A simple laugh can break so much tension and melt so much sadness. Joy is not to be confused with happiness, joy is much stronger, much heartier. The word speaks a great deal about the importance of joyfullness in contrast to a broken spirit. A smile and a laugh will get you through the toughest times. So my son, my prayer for you is that in the midst of difficulty and pain, you will find the strength to grin, to smile and to laugh, and perhaps even find an appropriate and well timed joke.
Love you Bear
Dad