Our Senior Moments…….

 

 

My sons are eighteen years and four months and yet they are seniors.  They are this old because we decided to “hold them back” when they were in pre-school hoping that would give them the chance to grow and mature and be ready for high school and college when it came.  You make decisions as young parents which will forever impact your children’s lives not knowing for sure if you are making good decisions which is why you learn quickly to pray… 

And so, we did. Pray. 

As a result of this holding, my sons entered their senior year already eighteen and adults.  Which means they can tackle as an adult anything which comes their way including signing their own paperwork for school, something we parents especially look forward to each year….Not! 

Each year on the first day of school, my three children bring home papers for personal information, insurance information, contact, school calendars, etc.  for me to sign. 

It dawned on me that this year, my signature was no longer required. 

I am no longer needed. 

My babies are adults in the eyes of the law. 

They can sign themselves. 

So, I didn’t ask them after that first day of school “where are all your papers I need to sign?” like I have in year’s past.

And, I confess….it was a bittersweet moment for this Mama…… 

So, it was pretty precious to me when Johnson came to me after having filled out all of his paperwork and said, “Mama, I know I am old enough to sign these for myself, but would you please sign them too?  You are still my Mama and I know you wouldn’t want to miss this opportunity….” 

And then he smiled a big….Mama-knowing smile which melted my heart.  He got it…..He understood.  He knows we are winding down the times where he will need me for these little things and he knows that not only is he on a journey, but I am on one with him. 

I appreciate that. 

Later, Kenton came in to my office and handed his papers likewise filled out all except my signature….

And he said, “Mama, would you like to sign for me this one last time?”

It is a sweet day when your son’s take the time to understand your Mother’s heart….it makes you realize they are moving from the “it’s all about me stage” to the “it’s okay for it to be about someone else besides me stage.”

I signed the volumes of papers….my last time to do so and Kenton walked over to me and had me stand up for a hug…”see Mama, that wasn’t so bad.  We will always be your boys, you will always be our Mama.”

A Senior-Mama Moment I will treasure. 

…..may I not miss a single one