Day 55 - Roots And Wings

When my son was a newborn, his pediatrician told me that the most important things I could give him were roots and wings. At the time the concept seemed ridiculous to me. Roots and wings? He was a baby, reliant on me for everything. It wasn't until he got older that I really grasped the concept of giving him roots and wings.

For the last 13 years I believe that his father and I have given him, and his sisters roots. They know that even when they move away, the home they grew up in will have a special meaning. They know that we love them unconditionally and forever. No matter what mistakes they may make, and they will make mistakes, they can count on us to always love them no matter what. They know that we will always be their parents and that even when they are adults they will be the most important people in our lives. These are the things that have helped give them roots.

Tomorrow I test my ability to let them have wings. Tomorrow my son is taking an airplane to his grandparents in St. Paul, alone. I am so nervous. I feel like 13 seems too young to be flying alone. But, I am going to allow it. He is very responsible and more than capable of doing this by himself . I know that he will not be left alone for a moment. I will see him get on that plane and my mother will be waiting for him at the other end at the gate with open arms. He will be fine.

I believe that by doing this I am helping to build his self confidence. I know that I am telling him I trust him and that I believe in his judgement. I am also telling him that I am okay with him someday living his own life and eventually leaving his home. All of these things are important lessons for all of us. So, this weekend I am giving my boy wings of his own and I am going to let him fly away knowing that he will be back on Sunday.