In the realm of parenting, some moments catch you off guard, sneaking up like a thief in the night. Take ice cream, for instance—when you approach the bottom of the tub, you get a heads-up. You can savor each scoop, and if you’re running low, you can always replenish your stash. But the little rituals of daily life? Those endings often come without warning.
For 18 years, I was immersed in the ritual of bathing my son. Each day, I would lather his hair, coaxing him to “close his eyes and tilt back.” A simple plastic cup would serve as my rinsing tool, and this routine continued until it didn’t. Strangely, I didn’t realize the shift right away. Weeks later, while cooking dinner and stirring onions, a thought drifted into my mind: I couldn’t remember the last time I washed Jamie’s hair. It struck me that I had been so engrossed in the mundane that I failed to notice how our routine had quietly transformed. My son had transitioned to showers, and while I recognized this change, I hadn’t acknowledged the departure of our cherished ritual.
So, like any attentive mother would do, I sought out Jamie, who was engrossed in his own activities. I casually asked if he would mind if I washed his hair that evening. His enthusiastic “sure” felt like a gift. With that simple word, I was granted yet another opportunity to savor a moment that was slipping away. I took my time as I soaped up his hair, creating playful designs in the lather, all the while reflecting on the countless baths we had shared. This final wash became a poignant memory that I would forever cherish, as I embraced both the warmth of the water and the bittersweet conclusion of a significant chapter.
Being Present in Daily Life
How do we remind ourselves to be present in our daily lives? Every day, I stumble upon inspirational quotes urging us to live in the moment. I nod in agreement but often find myself lost in the monotony of everyday tasks. When my eldest left for college, I felt a rush of freedom—until the silence set in, and I was left feeling nostalgic for the days gone by.
As Heritage Day approaches at the middle school, I received a SignUpGenius reminder to volunteer. I can contribute water bottles, utensils, muffins, or even help serve food and clean up afterward. A couple of years ago, these notifications filled my inbox, often met with annoyance. But now, as I check the box to volunteer, I’m acutely aware that opportunities like this are dwindling. I realize that engaging at school is evolving into a memory of times past, prompting gratitude for this chance to be present and aware of what’s changing. It may just help me avoid another unexpected farewell when dinner time rolls around.
Embracing Fleeting Moments
In summary, recognizing the fleeting nature of our routines can encourage us to embrace each moment. Engaging in meaningful experiences, like washing a child’s hair or volunteering at school, can create lasting memories. As we navigate the journey of parenthood, let us strive to cherish these moments, for they often pass before we even notice their departure.
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