Growing Pains

The picture above is a present-day photo of my son,  Jeremy, who captured my heart 14 years ago.

The picture below is who I still see.  A toddler - my baby. A cute, orange haired bundle of joy who first gave me the name “Mom.”

In two weeks, he will be a freshman in high school. Deep breath. Gulp! I remember swaddling him. His first steps.  The look of amazement at his first trip to the movie theater. 

It’s hard to be prepared for your first child. We can read all the books, buy the best baby products and have the nursery decorated to a tee. But, when that child enters the world, everything changes. We’re scared and excited all at once.  And, somehow, with a little help from those who’ve already been there, prayer and guidance from our Heavenly Father, we eventually figure some of this parenting thing out.

Yesterday, after getting advice from a friend, I bought my son an alarm clock. I realize I’m probably behind on making him wake up on his own, but, it’s something I’ve always done. It’s been a part of my morning routine for 14 years. Some may not see the big deal in that purchase, but, for me, it’s one more step of independence. One more thing he doesn’t need me to do for him anymore. Us Moms (Dads too) begin to feel the sting when our children get too old to hold our hand. Elementary turns to middle school and at some point, we find out that we (parents) aren’t as cool as we once were to them. It’s a gradual fade but it happens faster than we think or like. It's so hard to let go when we've held on for so long.

What do we do when the growing pains hit us?

It seems to happen many times throughout our children's lives.  Regardless of what stage our kids are in, we have to know and trust God has them in the palm of his hand and he is the One in control. In him, all things hold together. (Colossians 1:17) We need not fear for God strengthens us, helps us and upholds us. (Isaiah 41:10). We can also take comfort if we train our children in the way they should go they won't depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6) And, if they stray, know we are all sinners and all fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Yet, He loves us just the same.

It's a few years away for us, but, the thought of crossing over into adulthood can be overwhelming. We, as parents, know what it brings with it. Their hearts will probably get broken. They'll make a bad choice or two. Question the direction of their lives. Maybe they’ll marry and have children of their own. Oh, how our minds can wander on the what if’s and future uncertainties.

For today though, my son is still 14. Not yet old enough to drive or date (thank goodness).  All I can do, or any parent can do is take it one step at a time. And, with a little help from those who've been there before, prayer, and guidance from our Heavenly Father, we will figure it out, again.