A Reflection on Leaving for College: A Mother and Son’s Journey

Son

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The night before my departure, I packed my belongings, reminiscing with friends until tears were shed. Underneath the glow of a streetlamp in the suburb I was eager to escape, we exchanged hugs and made promises to stay in touch. It was bittersweet—though I recognized it as the end of a cherished chapter, I didn’t dwell on the sadness. I allowed myself just enough emotion to feel the moment.

Mom

Before we left for college, I took one last stroll through his room to ensure nothing was forgotten. Typically, finding anything in my youngest son’s tiny space was a challenge due to the clutter of clothes and books. But today, it was surprisingly tidy, with only a few dirty glasses and empty snack wrappers remaining. He had hoped our dog, Max, would spend one last night with him, but after a brief goodbye to friends, it was clear sleep was far from his mind. To distract ourselves from the impending change, we decided on a late-night trip to a 24-hour store for some last-minute essentials. I can’t recall what we bought, but the movement kept our minds busy.

Son

The next morning, I stood in my room, finger poised over the light switch, searching for closure but feeling mostly numb. Bidding farewell to Max was strange—he had been by my side since I was five—but surprisingly easy. As my parents and I drove to the airport, my mom filled the silence with chatter.

Mom

At the airport, he chose a tuna salad sandwich for breakfast—how did he find tuna salad at 6 a.m.? I engaged in small talk while my husband, who had wisely gotten rest, injected some humor into the mix. We were both trying to maintain a light mood, but the reality of Nick being our last child at home was weighing heavily on us.

Son

We navigated through security and boarded the plane, absorbing the mix of my dad’s quiet contentment and my mom’s animated conversation. I sensed their struggle to say goodbye to their youngest child. That feeling lingered as we unloaded my belongings in the dorm and again during our farewell in the parking lot.

Mom

After the chaos of packing and settling him into his new space—complete with introductions to his roommate and their families—it was time for my husband and me to leave. Having gone through this twice before with my older children, I still felt unprepared. This time, there were no family members nearby to check in on him; no one to say, “Come over for dinner.” I was faced with the emotional task of walking away—flying away, actually. How could I leave this boy who had brought me so much joy? I handed him a lucky coin, a clover, and encouraged him to keep it close, especially during tough times. Our eyes met, and I caught a glimpse of emotion. Was it a tear? I wasn’t sure until he pulled me into a warm embrace.

Son

In that moment, I finally felt the weight of goodbye. I hadn’t anticipated it would be so difficult, especially since I was excited for school. Reflecting back, I realized it had been hard to part with my dog, my room, and my friends. And then they were gone—just like that. Or perhaps it was I who had departed. Guilt washed over me; it felt like I was the one leaving everyone behind. I truly understood the emotional depth only when I heard their car drive away.

Mom

As we drove away, I caught one last glimpse of my son heading towards campus. It marked the end of an era and a glimpse into the man he was becoming. I hope he knows that our love for him is everlasting.

Son

Over time, I realized that parting wasn’t as hard as it seemed, because nothing is ever truly lost. My family, my dog, my room, and my friends will always have a place in my heart. Knowing they feel the same made the transition much easier.

In the context of transitions, whether it’s starting college or preparing for a new chapter in life, understanding the emotional facets of such experiences is vital. For guidance on related topics, consider checking out this article on pregnancy or exploring home insemination options through Cryobaby’s home insemination kits.

Summary

This reflective piece captures a mother and son’s emotional journey as he prepares to leave for college. They navigate the bittersweet feelings of farewell, exploring the balance between nostalgia and excitement for new beginnings. Through their shared experiences, they discover the enduring nature of love and connection, which transcends distance.