Letting Our Children Go

As parents, one of the toughest things each of us face is letting go of our children when they become adults.

Anne and I have three adult sons, each of whom is married, has two children and is very successful in their careers. We couldn't be more proud of them.

But when they were young adults, they and we knew when it was time for them to build lives independent of us and hard as it was, we let go.

We were still there when they needed us and on their own, they prospered.

But last night I had a dream in which we instead had kept them at home for our own selfish reasons. 

As a result rather than prosper, each had floundered. They were like butterflies that had never used their wings to soar.

Our continued control had stunted them and they were unhappy in their lives. It was a nightmare.

But as I awoke, I knew our sons were doing well and it was a wonderful feeling.

As a parent, you too will face the same dilemma Anne and I once did, and I hope you will have the courage to let go.

If you raised them with love and devotion, and shared your wisdom while patiently guiding them through life's lessons, they will be ready to fly on their own.

For on their own is the only way anyone can fly, as their wings gain strength and they soar into the heavens.

Meanwhile, you can watch proudly and lovingly, knowing you did your job well.

Dick