Happy birthday! You’re eighteen! What are you doing today? I imagine something special? It is, after all, a special birthday. Welcome to Adulthood: It Feels Exactly The Same.
You have more legal freedom now than you ever had before. Before this date I always imagined you messaging me somewhere once you had turned eighteen, but I know that legal adulthood often doesn’t feel like it when you’re in the exact same place as usual. But it’s still true: you have freedom now. If you need anything, we are here. Housing, college, anything. You are not trapped. You can come home at anytime. We will always take care of you. Even if you have to endure Mom and Aaron pausing Jeopardy to discuss every question. That’s the rent fee.
This birthday was more stressful for me than anything. I imagine it’s much worse for you. I don’t know what it’s like at home. But know you are not stuck in whatever’s going on. There is always a way out. I love you so much.
With love,
Alice