As I strolled past my son’s open bedroom door, I paused to switch off the light. In that moment, I caught sight of him resting on the bed, and it hit me: he is no longer my little boy. He has blossomed into a young man.
I need to take a moment—just a heartbeat—to acknowledge this transition and say goodbye. It’s a bittersweet realization that I must let go of the child who balanced precariously between the innocence of boyhood and the complexities of adolescence. I’ve experienced it all, from the time he was an infant, cradled effortlessly in my hands, to the spirited toddler who donned his Captain Feathersword costume and zipped around with his favorite toys, to the energetic school-aged boy who filled my days with joy and worry alike. Each stage of his childhood has been a treasure, and while I eagerly anticipated what was to come, I also mourned the stages we left behind.
Not long ago, I yearned for just one more summer with my “little guy.” Oh, how I craved that fleeting moment of simplicity. My wish was granted—one last summer filled with the delightful chaos of boyhood. But, as expected, time marched on, and my son continued to grow. I had to grow alongside him, adapt, and embrace the changes.
Now, I look at him and marvel at the incredible teenager he is becoming. Changes unfold daily; it feels as though he’s sprouted taller than my own 5 feet 9 inches in the blink of an eye. His voice has deepened, his laughter has changed, and his perspectives have shifted. We even engage in discussions about current events and politics—he genuinely knows what he’s talking about. He is forging ahead into adulthood, leaving childhood behind, and I can see that I’ve done my job well. He is on the path to becoming a remarkable man.
I will always cherish the memories of my joyful toddler, the enchanting imagination of a six-year-old, the epic forts, and the essence of my little boy. Every farewell to a past stage reminds me of both what I’ve lost and what I continue to gain. My boy is growing up, and it’s a magical journey. We have many adventures ahead.
I feel fortunate that he still thinks I’m cool, or at least pretends to. He still enjoys spending time with me, often suggesting our next adventure. Although he sometimes opts to hang out with friends, he always returns for a kiss goodbye and an “I love you,” no matter who is around. He seeks my advice but is forming his own independent thoughts.
Sometimes, he still takes my hand as we cross the street. I can’t quite tell if it’s to ensure his own safety or to protect me. Regardless of the reason, I’ll always hold on.
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In summary, while watching our children grow can be a heart-wrenching experience, it also offers opportunities for new adventures and memories. Embrace each stage, and remember that growth is an essential part of life.