By: Emma Collins
Updated: February 10, 2023
Originally Published: September 19, 2022
It’s hard to believe, but my son has just begun his high school journey. This marks a significant shift compared to when he entered middle school. For starters, there’s no longer a lengthy supply list to navigate! I cherished those trips to the store, selecting the necessary items with my son, even if our tastes didn’t quite align. Remember that adorable pencil case with the blue stars? (Uh, no thanks, Mom.) In high school, the exhaustive list of supplies has vanished, replaced by the exciting opportunity for him to choose his own electives—art, music, and photography—choices that feel so mature.
However, the most profound change is what lies ahead. After preschool, my son transitioned to elementary school—a big leap from just a few hours in a classroom to a full day in first grade. Then came middle school, where he experienced the thrill of switching classes and lockers. But now, with high school on the horizon, I can’t help but realize that after graduation, my role as a mother will transform in ways I can hardly fathom.
Fortunately, I have four years to get ready for this new phase. Just the thought of a home without my son around every day is overwhelming. Thus, I intend to make the most of these years, for I know that in just four short years:
- The house will echo with silence.
- I’ll glance at the clock at 3:30, expecting him to rush in, but no one will be there.
- My laundry load will diminish significantly.
- Secret gift hiding will become a thing of the past.
- The neighborhood kids will no longer ring the doorbell.
- My calendar will lack the familiar phrases “drop-off” and “pick-up.”
- The piano will gather dust, untouched.
- I won’t hear the familiar ping of texts from my son’s phone.
- There will be no need to rush home to catch the bus.
- My grocery shopping will consist of less exciting food options.
- I won’t witness my son and his father engaged in Scrabble.
This chapter of my life is set to take a new direction. Yet, there are still ways to stay connected. My son can call or text me anytime. We can video chat, and if only they had a hug-a-vision feature on Skype! I can send him care packages, especially during those stressful weeks filled with assignments. He can return home for holidays, and he will be busy pursuing his dreams.
Undoubtedly, it will be challenging to say goodbye to someone so cherished. But rather than a final farewell, it will be more of a “Text me! Call me! Video chat!” As I navigate these years, I aim to cherish every moment with him, to engage more, and to hold him a little longer. My role as a mother will evolve, but it will never cease. A mother’s love is eternal. While my son may not need me in the same daily capacity, he will always require his mother’s support. And I will always be ready to send him a care package filled with his favorite treats, like Oreos, along with a gentle reminder to stay in touch.
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In summary, as our children step into high school, it serves as a reminder of the inevitable changes in our roles as mothers. We must embrace these changes and prepare for the new dynamics that come with this transition.