Before my graduation (have I mentioned that I'm a college graduate yet? 'Cause I totally am. A college graduate, that is), mom and I had a bunch of conversations revolving primarily around where we wanted to have dinner, and what she could get me for a present. It went something like this:
Mom: What do you want for a present??
Me: A nice cream colored summer suit from Banana Republic would be really nice.
Mom: I'm not getting you a suit.
Me: I know. Honestly I don't expect or need any kind of present at all.
Mom: Well, that's a nice thing to say.
Me: Of course, now that I think about it, I do remember a girl graduating from Boulder who totally got a BMW Z3 roadster.
Mom: Ah. You'd look good in a silver one. Let me look into that.
Me: Awesome. Thanks!
Mom: Now, what about this restaurant you want to go to? What's the dress code there? What are you going to wear?
Me: Well, if I *had* one, I'd wear a nice cream colored summer suit from Banana Republic.
And so on. The actual gift she decided on, however, so far outstripped anything I could have ever dreamt of, and I'd like to share it here. It still makes me cry, and I suspect it will for quite some time.
May 12, 2006
Christopher,
As you know, my dad gave me this gold Krugerrand a long time ago, as well as the bar of silver. He told me that as long as they belonged to me, I would never be poor -- and also that I should never sell them.
Now they are yours, to do with as you please. From my dad to me, they were a symbol of his love and protection. From me to you, they mean the same thing. If my dad was here, he would be so proud of you -- for being smart, for being adventurous, for finishing things you started, and for being strong and ethical. He was all of these things, and he would be thrilled that you and he are so much alike.
He left a lasting mark on his family and on the world, and so will you. Doors are opening for you, just like they did for him, and there are no limits to what you can accomplish. He was never stronger than when others doubted his resolve, and I see the same strength in you.
I am happy to pass this gold and silver on to you on this very special day. My mom adored you, and she and my dad are both beaming as they watch you today. So am I.
Love, Mom