We just helped our oldest move into his first real apartment. The one he is paying for himself. It was different and less scary than when we left him, eyes blinking wide, at his dorm room at college. This time he’s an adult, embarking on an exciting life: with a wonderful job in his field where he is appreciated, engaged in a long-term relationship with an intelligent, awesome, gorgeous woman who loves him, courageously taking part soon in his wedding, life spread open at his feet. He’s a caring, amazingly gifted, intellectually curious and brave young man. I adore him. He keeps me clear, without artificiality: “Mom”, he says, “are you sure you have thought this through? You know the cost.” He expects more from me sometimes than I truly believe I can face. And yet, somehow, his questions lead me to be more than I am. Even, at times, a better human being. What would I do without his knowing grin? I am thankful he’s around the corner. Maybe he’ll move further away. But in my heart, he’s with me.
