Dear Son/Daughter,
Are you kidding me?????? I have devoted my entire life to raising you, grooming you, encouraging you, and shall we say lecturing you into an amazing person. Finally, you make it through the rocky river and emerge looking like a shiny diamond. And…. and….and….YOU’RE MOVING?????!!!
Boy, oh boy, the return on investment in this parenting thing is looking critically low right now! ouch.
However – I haven’t been doing all this for me. Not by a long shot. Or I would have parented very differently. It’s been for you.
And I couldn’t be happier for you!
Do you remember, years ago, when you told me you were moving out? We talked, and though I knew I’d miss you, I told you that this was the moment we had been aiming our sights towards. Your becoming a young adult and being confident enough to tackle life on your own. That was a huge feather in your dad and my caps. A victory. Because you did it! You tackled life and its challenges. You handled some challenges better than others (that’s the rocky river I was talking about in the first paragraph) and emerged better for it. And now….
A move. It’s not Alaska. Thank God. But it’s not local either. Already my life seems so empty at the thought of not having you near. On the other hand I am so excited for you and your future. You have worked hard and been recognized for it. Seeing an opportunity, you strategically planned and jumped on it. Now the future is very exciting. I heard the excitement in your voice yesterday as you described the unknown. You don’t even care that you don’t know the details!!! It’s adorable! Your excitement is all this momma needs to send her baby off with a heartfelt wish and a prayer as I cheer you on!
I am so, so proud of you. And as you ride off into the great unknown, we will be here….praying, cheering, and waiting for news of your great adventure.
Go get ’em!!! You have all the tools you need!
With all my love,
Mom