I am thrilled that my daughter has grown into such a beautiful, wonderful, self-assured young woman, but I am sad that my baby is growing up and will soon fly away from the nest. It scares me to let her spread her wings because I don't want her to get hurt. I know she will stumble and fall and I know I have to let her because it is usually through our mistakes that we learn the most valuable lessons. That is unfortunate, but true.According to her, I am her hero. I have been her protector, her champion, her drill sergeant, her task master, her cheerleader, her coach, her confidant, her safe place for 18 years. And have no doubt, I will always be available to play those roles when she allows it – and even sometimes when she doesn’t want me too. The hard part will be figuring out when I need to let her “do it myself, Mommy” or when to butt in even when she thinks she doesn’t need or want me to do so.
I’m sure it won’t be as difficult as I fear, because she is truly remarkable. In fact, SHE is MY hero.
I am also especially emotional because I have been married to the most wonderful man for almost two years now. He is the sweetest, kindest, most genuine man I have ever met. I am thankful every day that he is in my life. I wish circumstances weren’t the way they are so that we could go away – even if only for a long weekend. He can’t get off work at his new job and I am having one of my bigger episodes with my neck/spine/back. I’ve had to increase my pain pills, muscle relaxers and am once again on steroids. I’m trying to hold off on surgery until next year. Maybe then I can once again be “me” and I will be able to be to wife to him that he deserves – because he truly deserves the very best.
