Last month we vacationed in the Smoky Mountain National Park. One afternoon we sat at the “sink” and watched a group of people jump off a 20 foot cliff into a deep pool of water nestled between two waterfalls. I knew then that it was inevitable. My 18 year old son would do it. In spite of the “caution” signs scattered around us, he would jump. And I would let him. I wanted to hold on…to keep him “safe”…to be in control. But it was time to let go. He did it without hesitation. I cheered him on. I even took a photo. I’m glad I didn’t hold on too tight. Sometimes the most important thing a mother can do is to “let go”.
Today I let go again. It was time for a great-big-leap into independence. Today he left the comfort and security of his home behind as he jumped off into college life. He didn’t hesitate. He didn’t look back. I wanted to hold on…keep him “safe”…be in control. I admit, I did what I could. I helped make sure his room was stocked with all the “necessities” and that he knew how to do his laundry. But it was time to let go. I cheered him on. I even took a photo. I’m glad I didn’t hold on too tight. Sometimes the most important thing a mother can do is to “let go”. Well, there is another important thing a mother can do. She can be very, very proud of her courageous son.
