The moment my eldest child, Jake, received his college acceptance letter was surreal. In just a few seconds, a whirlwind of emotions surged through me: joy, excitement, anxiety, anticipation, relief, gratitude, and an overwhelming sense of elation. But what surprised me most was the profound release I felt—not only for myself but for him, too. As my husband, Jake, and I gathered around the screen, reading the word “Congratulations!” together, it was as if a breeze swept through the room, symbolizing Jake taking flight from our nest.
For the first time, I wasn’t sad about this transition. I genuinely want him to soar. All I could think was how every moment, every struggle, and every sleepless night had led to this. Witnessing that pivotal shift from childhood to adulthood, as my child’s dreams began to materialize while his youthful aspirations faded, made every challenge utterly worthwhile.
To all the parents out there with little ones yet to reach college age, trust me—it will be worth it!
It was worth the months of morning sickness, the stretch marks, the labor pains, and yes, even the new body that came post-baby. Every sleepless night, every tearful cry, and every diaper blowout was a small price to pay. All the chaos of the terrible twos, the sass of the threes, the relentless tantrums, and the countless readings of “Goodnight Moon” were just stepping stones.
The scraped knees, vaccinations, and runny noses, along with ear infections and braces, were all part of the journey. The endless grocery store trips and the thousands of lunches packed for a perpetually hungry boy were moments I’d never trade. The late nights spent practicing spelling words and cramming for science projects brought us closer, despite the exhaustion.
Driving him to school, sports, and appointments, even when fatigue blurred my vision, became cherished memories. The teenage years were filled with challenges: fewer hugs, longer days, dented cars, and unappetizing dinners. Yet, amidst the stress of raising a young man who still carries the heart of a child, I embraced every moment.
As I reflected on all those milestones, I realized Jake was looking ahead, not back. And that thought filled me with peace. Yes, my “work” as a parent is evolving, and while I celebrate his acceptance, I know the journey doesn’t end at 18. He will always need his mom, but slowly, he’ll carve his own path and rely on me less. And that’s a beautiful thing.
Later today, I’ll likely gaze at his empty bed, realizing that soon it will be a constant sight. But I won’t feel sadness; the joy radiating from his face last night reassured me: he is ready.
It truly was all worth it.
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