Letting them go
Cindy on May 7th, 2009
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Several of my friends and neighbors will be watching their children walking the stage to receive high school diplomas this month. And of course, everyone’s talking about the May-June whirlwind of award banquets, graduation parties, summer jobs, and ultimately, the Big Launch to College in August. It all brings back memories of my son’s high school graduation season, just five years ago. This time of year, parents who are preparing for the empty nest are feeling surges of pride mingled with bittersweet emotion. That’s the topic of my newest Midpoint column in The Oakland Press. — CL
May 7th, 2009 at 11:24 am
A very touching essay, Cindy. I think it helps to remember that with our children young adults, we always share a rich history together. That past, and each milestone, helps to strengthen our connection to one another, whether the child goes away to school, or commutes from home. It’s all part of a beautiful journey.
May 7th, 2009 at 12:26 pm
Thanks, Joanne. And you’re so right. My son is 23 now, and I’m enjoying the depth of our relationship; how we are able to communicate as adults. In retrospect, I am also very glad we were able to spend so much time together while he was a kid. The paybacks and rewards are priceless. –CL
May 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
It goes by soooo fast! It’s hard to imagine that it’s high school graduation for my granddaughter already! GREAT POST. More please!
May 8th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
It is that time of year, isn’t it? I don’t like the term empty nest, either. Makes it sound like I’ve run out of everything and need to go shopping. I think it’s exactly what Marion Winik said – the most important thing I’ll ever do is done. Everything else pales in comparison. The good news is that we will always be mothers, regardless of how old the kids get. Happy Mother’s Day!
May 8th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
Cindy,
What a lovely essay. I don’t have kids, but I can tell you that when I get a high school graduation notice from a friend’s graduating teen, it strips away the delusion that time is somehow standing still. Happened the other day. How is that 8 year old girl I knew, now graduating and sending me a picture that makes her look like some young copywriter in NYC?
Hope your Mother’s Day includes the kid(s) somehow.