Actress Jodi Sta. Maria marked a major family milestone on Tuesday, sharing a nostalgic open letter to her son Thirdy Lacson in honor of his 20th birthday.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Jodi reflects on the passage of time. She expressed her disbelief at how quickly the years have flown, recalling the days when she held him as a "small and fragile" infant.
Now that Thirdy is officially an adult, Jodi looks back on his growth and describes him as a divine blessing she is eternally thankful for.
Read more of Jodi Sta Maria's birthday message to her son, Thirdy Lacson in this gallery.
In a poignant trip down memory lane, Jodi was amazed at how quickly time has passed as she watched her once "small and fragile" son transition into adulthood on his 20th birthday.
“Wow, you are 20! Parang kailan lang hawak hawak lang kita so small, so fragile..and now here you are stepping into adulthood,” she wrote in the caption.
Jodi described her son's journey as a divine gift, expressing her gratitude for the privilege of witnessing him navigate life's highs and lows with both resilience and grace for the past two decades.
“These 20 years with you have been one of my life's greatest blessings and I thank the Lord for your life. It's a gift to watch you grow, learn, stumble, rise, and grow with courage and humility,” she said.
Jodi shared her fervent prayers for guidance, protection, and the fulfillment of Thirdy's aspirations as he begins this new chapter: “I pray that our good Lord continues to guide you and protect you and grant you the deepest desires of your heart.”
Jodi further imparted heartfelt advice, praying that Thirdy possesses the self-worth and resilience to face life's challenges while saying her long-standing encouragement for him to "dream big" without limits.
“I pray for the wisdom to know your worth, strength to overcome challenges, and courage to dream big..sabi ko lagi sa'yo libre ang mangarap anak kaya taasan mo na,” Jodi wrote.
Amidst the uncertainties of life, Jodi offered a powerful reassurance of unconditional support, promising her son that he will always have a devoted circle of loved ones ready to catch him when he falls and cheer him on at every milestone.
“Life may bring uncertainties, but know that I and the people who truly love you and care for you will always be here, cheering you on, ready to catch you if you fall, and celebrating every step of your journey. We believe in you anak!” Jodi expressed.
Closing her heartfelt message to her son, Jodi sealed her tribute by wishing a happy birthday to her son: “I love you always and forever. Happy Birthday, my favorite travel buddy!”