“As a parent ... I found myself unexpectedly unsure how to guide him through the moment.”

The author's son Tayz writing while sitting in a rocking chair at Mt. Vernon, outside George Washington's home.

Editor’s note: We’re republishing this piece from HuffPost now, a couple of weeks after it originally ran. We also have a wonderful update to include. After the piece originally ran, an overwhelming number of readers asked to read Tayz’s original letter. We’re happy to announce that his essay, “Dear President George Washington,” found a home at Skipping Stones, and you can read it here.

Ami J. Shah is a former U.S. diplomat, nonprofit executive, entrepreneur, and mother of two. Her writing explores family, identity, culture, and the stories we inherit across generations. She lives in Maryland with her family.