As soon as they hit their teens, it seems like that the time is being counted down to their day of full independence. In some countries it automatically happens when they hit 18, or whatever is the legal age of the country they live in. For others it is when they begin working. For some, it is only when they get married.
Whichever is the case wherever you live, letting go can be difficult. You’ve watched over their every breath. Their activities and activities involving their interests form a major portion of your day. You have guided and protected them all of their lives. Suddenly, they are moving on and into a new home.
It may sound trite but it really is true. No matter how old you or your kids get, you will always be their parents. Though they may not believe it yet, they will need you even if they are all grown up. It will help keep your relationship good if you can let them go without clinging or being too fussy. After all, everyone grows up; including you.
All we can do is hope that we prepared them well for being on their own. Hopefully they are well equipped to not only survive on their own, but to thrive. It is now their turn to make decisions as well as mistakes.
It isn’t easy to just stand there and watch but we need to. Think of them as being the lead actor in the film of their life and you are a supporting character. Our new role is to be there to support them when they need us.
[tags]parenting,growing up,adulthood,independence,support[/tags]
Originally posted on July 23, 2006 @ 6:28 pm
