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A Letter to My 21-Year-Old Son
Dear Lucas,
As you step into your 21st year, I find myself reflecting on the significant changes that come with this milestone. What aspects of our parenting still resonate with you, and which have become as obsolete as the Little Tikes car you once raced around the neighborhood? With your newfound ability to purchase a bottle of Grey Goose or enjoy a cocktail at a bar, I ponder how our relationship and your perception of my guidance may evolve. Will you find my insights less relevant, or does this maturation lead you to appreciate them more?
Looking back over the past 21 years, how does it feel to officially leave childhood behind? While turning 18 marked a legal threshold, true adulthood often emerges gradually, and 21 signifies the onset of a new chapter — your journey into manhood. I see glimpses of this transformation when I look at you, often reminiscing about the sweet little boy with a passion for Barney the Dinosaur and the beloved Gymboree blanket you carried everywhere.
There is so much ahead of you, and I can sense your eagerness. However, I urge you not to rush through this phase of life. Embrace being 21, then savor 22, and so on. Think of your life as an open book, or perhaps a thrilling football season just beginning. There are countless lessons to learn, and they won’t all come at once. I know you’re impatient, just as I was. You often wish for tomorrow to arrive sooner, but I encourage you to pause and relish the present moment.
Recognizing your need for independence, I consciously take a step back to allow you space to grow. I want you to navigate your path, guided by a blend of influences from us, your grandparents, your sister, and your friends, supplemented by your own moral compass.
I am proud of the choices you make, as you begin to trust your instincts and judgment — a skill honed over years of seeking our help. Your recent comment to your father, “I realize I don’t have to share everything with you and Mom,” reassured me that we have done our job well. While you increasingly rely on your own judgment, remember that we are always here, ready to offer advice when you ask for it, though those moments may grow rarer.
Sometimes, I find myself missing the little boy who saw me as his whole world, with those gigantic green eyes filled with admiration. Yet, I am equally excited about the man you are evolving into. I eagerly anticipate what the future has in store for you, but I will practice patience and cherish this moment, just as I encourage you to do.
For more insights on navigating life’s transitions, you may explore resources like this article on intrauterine insemination, or check out this guide on home insemination for additional support. You can also learn more about related topics on our blog.
In summary, as you embark on this new chapter at 21, embrace your independence while continuing to reflect on the values and lessons from those who have guided you. This is an exciting time, and I am here to support you every step of the way.