Updated: June 28, 2019
Originally Published: February 3, 2016
As I passed by my son’s open bedroom door, I paused to turn off the light. In that fleeting moment, I caught a glimpse of the figure resting on the bed and realized: That is no longer my little boy; he has transformed into a young man.
Hold on—just for a moment. I need to pause and take this in. I need a moment to bid farewell.
I understand that I will have to release the child who exists between the realms of boyhood and adolescence—something I have been doing all along. From the time he was a tiny infant, small enough to fit in my hand, through the exuberance of toddlerhood when he donned his Captain Feathersword costume and zoomed around with his Thomas the Tank Engine or Lightning McQueen toy, to the spirited schoolboy who explored the world with boundless energy, I cherished every moment. While I anticipated each new phase, I also grieved for the ones we left behind.
Not long ago, I wished for just one more summer with my little guy at what I considered the perfect age. I longed for a bit more time with my son as a child. My wish was granted—a final summer filled with youthful chaos. But as expected, he moved on to the next chapter. He grew, and I grew alongside him. It was either evolve or be left behind.
Even now, I marvel at the incredible teenager he is becoming. Each day brings new changes; he seems to have shot up taller than my 5 feet 9 inches in just a week. His voice has deepened, his laughter has shifted, and his perspective has matured. We even engage in discussions about politics—he truly knows what he’s talking about. He is progressing, shedding the remnants of childhood as he reaches for his fullest potential. This is the plan, and I must be doing something right because he is already a remarkable individual. A magnificent man is on the horizon.
I believe I will always carry a sense of nostalgia for that beaming toddler, the imaginative six-year-old, the adventures of building epic forts, and my little boy. Each goodbye to a stage of his life reminds me of what I miss and what I gain. Yes, my boy is maturing, and it is a beautiful, enchanting journey. We still have countless adventures ahead.
I feel fortunate that he still considers me somewhat cool—or at least pretends to. He enjoys spending time with me and remains my companion for adventures, now suggesting them himself. While he sometimes chooses to hang out with his peers, he always returns for a kiss goodbye and an “I love you,” regardless of who is nearby. He seeks my advice but also forms his own opinions.
Occasionally, he still reaches for my hand as we cross the street. I’m unsure whether it’s for his own safety or to protect me, but I cherish the moment nonetheless.
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In summary, the transition from childhood to adulthood is bittersweet yet full of promise. Each stage brings new joys and challenges, and while I may miss the past, I embrace the future with anticipation.
Keyphrase: Farewell to my young man
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