As I watch my son, Jackson, unfold his tall frame from the car, I can’t help but notice the way he clutches his backpack and laptop tightly. The faint scent of his cologne mingles with that unmistakable aroma of teenage boyhood, as his hair is styled with “product” (in case you’re wondering, teenagers today don’t refer to it as gel or mousse anymore). He turns to me and flashes a quick smile, his braces catching the light just right, and says, “See you later, Mom, love you.” I watch him swagger off to the bus, one shoelace trailing behind him, and wave goodbye as the yellow bus pulls away, taking him off to start his day.
With each passing “See you later,” I’m reminded that we’re one step closer to the inevitable big goodbye. The one that will tug at my heartstrings when he says, “See you later, Mom, I’ve got this,” as we drop him off at his college dorm. It’s the goodbye that signifies he won’t be beside me in the car anymore, sharing our favorite songs while waiting for the bus in the gentle rain.
There have been countless moments of “See you later” throughout his life, each one a step toward his growing independence. I once thought I had forever to hold on, but soon enough, I’ll be standing on the sidelines, watching him chase his dreams from afar. I didn’t realize that all those little goodbyes were preparing me for the day when I’d have to trust him to navigate life without his mother.
Memorable Moments of Goodbye
“See you later, Mom! I’m off to wreak havoc in the playroom!”
I remember how I steadied him as he took his first steps, those chubby little feet stumbling toward his dad, laughter filling the room as he fell. I never imagined those first steps would lead to him trudging in from school, heartbroken over a girl.
“See you later, Mom! They have Play-Doh!”
Capturing that moment when he proudly donned his Thomas the Tank Engine backpack on his first day of preschool, I waved at the back of his head as he confidently entered his new classroom. Little did I know that one day I would watch him walk into high school for the last time.
“See you later, Mom! I can ride to the stop sign by myself!”
After I held onto his bike seat, cheering him on until he finally pedaled away without me, my heart soared with pride and fear. I would never have guessed that one day I would be watching him drive off, my heart racing as he took the wheel.
“See you later, Mom. No need to walk me to the door. None of the other parents do…”
Dropping him off at his first co-ed party was nerve-wracking. I remembered my awkward teenage years and the emotions that came with them. Soon enough, I realized he’d be attending college parties, making decisions without my guidance.
“See you later, Mom. Thanks for doing my laundry…”
I sighed as I surveyed the chaos of his messy room, a clear sign of his presence. Soon, that clutter will be replaced with a quiet, empty space, only filled with memories of his childhood.
“See you later, Mom. Thanks for the extra cash.”
Chasing after him on a sunny day when he spotted the ice cream truck, I handed him a five-dollar bill, relishing in those lazy summer afternoons. But one day, I’ll be slipping him cash “for books,” knowing it may end up being spent on something else entirely.
“See you later, Mom. She’s the one, and I can’t wait to marry her.”
Those sweet moments on the couch, wrapped in his pajamas, where he declared he would always be with me, will transform into a day where I watch him nervously adjust his tie as he prepares to marry the love of his life. My heart will swell with pride, even as tears stream down my cheeks.
As the bus disappears into the morning light, I whisper softly, “See you later, Jackson.” I patiently await all those moments yet to come, knowing they will be filled with both joy and heartache.
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In summary, the bittersweet moments of saying goodbye to my son as he grows into independence are reminders of the beautiful journey we share. Each farewell is a step toward his future, and while it may break my heart, I know it’s all part of the process.