There is great benefit in writing a blessing and not just speaking it. It gives you the chance to prepare your thoughts and make sure you say everything you want to say. It does not mean you can’t then read it to them when you are together. Depending on your family situation, if your spouse is not going to be on the PVT, consider having them send one with you. Please do not give the written blessing to your Racer as soon as you arrive. There will be a time set aside later during the trip to do this. Please read below to learn how to write a blessing to your Racer.
There will be a designated time during the PVT when you will be able to bless your child with a written letter. It is done privately as a family unit (i.e., you will not be reading this publicly). This general outline is intended to give you some ideas.
Introduction: Set the context / describe what this rite of passage means. Most western cultures lack the rites of passage found in other societies. But a community needs to celebrate the passing of time in the lives of its members. A blessing can be part of that (ex. “You are on this amazing WR journey” OR “As you transition between college and what is ahead for you”).
A Story or Two. Retell a couple memories from their childhood or growing up years. It might be things you remember from home videos or family vacations or just ordinary, everyday things. Things that, looking back, you see as clear indicators of who they are and what they are like (hints in their childhood of who they have become). For example, “I remember when you were 4 and you begged to climb the tallest tree in our yard. I knew then you had an adventurous spirit,” OR “When you were 3 you gave your favorite teddy bear to your grandmother when she was sick and I saw that you had a gentle and compassionate heart.”
Show How They’ve Grown. You’ve probably watched with pride as they have grown into adulthood. They’ve pursued their own individual relationship with God, they’ve developed their own interests, etc. Talk about some of those things.
Describe Why They Make You Happy and Proud. Take some time to pray about and brainstorm why your son or daughter makes you happy and proud. Write down a long list and choose some to talk about. Emphasize what is special about them and talk about how you feel about them.
Write a Blessing (which you can also pray over them when you are together if you wish). Here are some examples you might want to include in a prayer of blessing:
When I think of you, here is what I think ….
I think you’re incredible (and here’s why ….)
Here are some of the things I love about you …
I’m sorry if I’ve ever held you back or limited you in any way (apologize if needed, but make sure the focus stays on blessing your son or daughter and not on your own story)
There’s nothing more you could do to add to how I feel about you.
I love who you’ve been in our household and I honor who you’re becoming.
Here are my dreams for you. Make sure these lift the spirit and do not add pressure. (E.g., I dream that you will always have a place where your joyful spirit will continue to bless people you come in contact with, NOT I dream that you’ll become a successful doctor.)
I bless you with all that I am and hope to be.
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