May was a whirlwind, her days busy with graduation parties, end of the year programs, and final exams. For seniors, it was the month of goodbyes to school, teachers, and friends. It’s hard to believe the last day of school has already come and gone, that this year has hugged its’ last hug and given its’ final gifts. Moms of kindergartners all the way to moms of seniors still can’t wrap their minds around how fast time goes or wrap arms around their children tight enough to make everything slow down. For moms, graduation was a bittersweet victory.
In her book Bittersweet, Shauna Niequist says, “Bittersweet is the idea that in all things there is both something broken and something beautiful, that there is a sliver of lightness on even the darkest of nights, a shadow of hope in every heartbreak, and that rejoicing is no less rich when it contains a splinter of sadness. Change is good, in the way that childbirth is good, and heartbreak is good, and failure is good. Change can push us, pull us, rebuke us, and remake us. I’ve learned the hard way that change is one of God’s greatest gifts, and most useful tools.”
The victory of graduation is for both mama and child. Because this school thing was a team effort, from the early morning alarm, to the carpool line, study sessions, and soccer practices. When her name is called to walk up on that stage to receive her diploma her mama is proud. She might be walking on that stage all by herself, but we made it to the finish line together.
The hugs given afterward are sweet, irreplaceable really. Hugs are truly the best way to say thank you. And, I’m sorry. Some days were more bitter than others, filled with tantrums and tears. But after the struggle, the hug says what the words can’t say.
Summer is just beginning, but we know it will pass as quickly as afternoon showers on sticky June days. It holds a touch of sadness because we know that soon we will begin all over again. Instead of worrying about the things of tomorrow like moving to college or the first grade, might we challenge ourselves to enjoy today? May we rest in knowing that God is with us as we grow up, both mama and child.
Because God promises us that there will be hope for our futures. Hope that does not disappoint and love that does not fail. He promises to be with us as we drop her off in her dorm room and make the quiet drive home. And as she puts on her school uniform and sits in her desk in that new classroom for the very first time. When we are scared because we’ve never done this before, he assures us that he has gone before us, he has prepared the way.
Graduation is the accomplishment of growing up. But getting to graduation is a process and moving on afterward is also a process. What you are feeling – that mix of relief, sadness, fear, and joy – it is normal and you totally aren’t the only one. Be a proud mama for getting your child to that stage in her cap and gown, but also know that both of you are still growing up and change is part of the process. Time passes quickly, just like the month of May, but allow yourself to be bittersweet, to accept the change that is happening, and to allow yourself to be open to what’s next in God’s plan for your life.
Pray with me?
God, change is scary but you are not. Please be with our children as they grow older and move on to their next phase in life. Give us the strength that we need to mother them wholeheartedly, with grace, and with love. I pray for growth, not only physical but also spiritual during these summer months, for both me and my child. May we bask in your presence during these warm summer months and know that you are with us, every step of the way, as we both grow up and graduate.
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July 31st – August 2nd,
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