After dinner today, a moment occurred that made time stand still. I was tidying up while my partner, Jake, tackled the dishes, and around our kitchen island, my son, Leo, was lost in his own world, dancing with an exuberance that was both unique and graceful. He belted out “Scars to Your Beautiful,” completely enthralled in the moment.
This performance was captivating, and as his mother, I was utterly spellbound. I could sense his comfort in our home—a space free of judgment where he could simply be himself. The joy of being in a safe environment, where he could express his true self, filled the room.
I imagined how he might react if an outsider had walked in. I envisioned him freezing mid-move, cheeks turning a bright shade of crimson, retreating into silence while his expressive dance would fade away. Essentially, he would stop being the vibrant child I know.
Leo tends to be reserved in unfamiliar settings. As he navigates new people and places, he often dims his light in response to the discomfort of the unknown. Each time this happens, it tugs at my heartstrings. I grapple with the desire to encourage him to break free from his shell and become the boy who dances around our kitchen with such abandon. I want the world to recognize and cherish him just as I do.
Yet, as I watch him dance, a moment of clarity washes over me. I realize that I cannot change who he is. Instead, my focus should be on allowing him to simply be. By doing “nothing,” I don’t mean neglecting my role as a parent; rather, I intend to create a space where he can express himself freely, regardless of where life leads him.
If Leo needs to approach the world cautiously, then my responsibility is to ensure he has a home where he can let go of those reservations. I shouldn’t pressure him to reveal the vibrant boy I see at home until he feels ready. My obligation is to offer a sanctuary where he can thrive, even if it means that this is the only place he feels completely at ease.
In today’s world, which often feels overwhelming and filled with negativity, I yearn for change. I worry about Leo’s future and how to prepare him for an uncertain world. Yet, when I take a step back, I remember my primary role is to love him unconditionally and provide the safe haven he needs to discover himself. I want him to know that when he steps through our front door, he will find nothing but love and acceptance.
Mistakes will be made, and wrong choices will occur, but within the walls of our home, he can always find his way back. I never want to see him shy, afraid, or overwhelmed as he enters our space. I want him to sing and dance until our kitchen floor bears the marks of his joy.
Ultimately, I hope he always feels empowered here, that his spirit continues to flourish within the comfort of our home. And when he’s ready to step out into the world, he’ll know that I’ll be there, cheering him on.
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Summary:
In a heartfelt reflection, Mia Johnson expresses the importance of providing a safe haven for her son, Leo, where he can freely express himself without fear of judgment. Despite the challenges of an uncertain world, she emphasizes love, acceptance, and the need for a nurturing home environment that allows him to flourish and find his way.