I paused at the open doorway of my son’s room, intending to turn off the light. As my hand reached for the switch, I caught sight of the figure lying on the bed. That is a young man, I realized. No longer my little boy, but someone who has grown into a young adult.
Wait. Just a moment. I need time to process this. I need a moment to say farewell.
I understand that I must release the child who was caught between boyhood and adolescence—something I’ve been doing all along. From the tiny infant who fit so perfectly in my palm, to the cheerful toddler who wore a pirate costume everywhere, clutching a toy car, to the energetic school-age boy who constantly sought out adventure and left me breathless—I cherished every phase of his childhood. While I anticipated what was next, I also grieved for the stages we’d outgrown.
I don’t know how to say goodbye.
Not long ago, I wished for just one more summer of what I believed to be his ideal age. Oh, how I longed for a bit more time with my little one. My wish was granted—one last summer filled with the joy of childhood chaos. But eventually, he transitioned to the next chapter. He matured, and I had to adapt alongside him. It was grow or be left behind.
Now, I see how beautiful this journey has been. I witness the remarkable young man he is becoming, with changes evident almost daily. It seems like he grew taller than my 5 feet 9 inches in a matter of days, and his voice has deepened, his laughter altered, and his thoughts expanded. We even discuss current affairs—it’s astonishing how knowledgeable he is. He’s evolving, leaving childhood behind, and striving for his full potential. That’s the goal, and I must be doing something right because he’s already an extraordinary individual. He’s destined to be a phenomenal man.
Yet, I struggle with saying goodbye to the little boy he once was.
I will forever miss that beaming toddler, the whimsical imagination of a 6-year-old, the toy cars, our epic forts, and my sweet little boy. Each farewell to a phase reminds me of both what I’m losing and what I’m gaining. Yes, my son is growing up, and it’s a beautiful, enchanting experience. We have so many adventures still ahead of us.
I’m fortunate that he still finds me somewhat cool—at least he pretends to! He wants to spend time with me and is still my partner in exploration. Now he even suggests the activities we should do together. Though he occasionally leaves to hang out with friends, he always returns for a goodbye kiss and an “I love you,” no matter who is around. He asks for my thoughts and then forms his own opinions.
Sometimes, he still takes my hand when we cross the street. I can’t tell if it’s to ensure his safety or to keep me secure, but either way, I hold on tight.
Because I truly don’t know how to say goodbye.
As we navigate these transitions, I’m reminded of the importance of resources like this one for understanding the journey of parenthood. And if you’re looking for ways to enhance fertility, check out this article for helpful tips. For those interested in unique recipes, these deliciously creamy cauliflower soup ideas might inspire your next meal.
Summary: A mother reflects on the bittersweet process of watching her son transition from childhood to adolescence. As she cherishes past memories, she also embraces the incredible young man he is becoming, navigating the complexities of growth while grappling with the emotions tied to letting go of the little boy he once was.