My Boy is Flying to New York Today
A few minutes ago you were buzzing around on a scooter, zipping off on a bicycle, waving from a skateboard, driving a car down the boulevard on a date, flashing a smile from the commencement platform. Wait, wait, do you have your ID? A jacket? Your phone? The mom alert, like a motion detector light, always set off by each departure. My heart is winging across the country with you, just outside your Jet Blue window. I see your tray table lowered, holding ginger ale, your eyes focused on the ten-inch screen in the seatback. If you would gaze out the window would you see me in the sky like Chagall’s goat above the rooftop? God knows a mother’s heart always goes with her children. Do you?
Write in San Diego-blog 
That’s powerful. We work to make sure our kids are responsible enough, smart enough, adventurous enough to get on that plane when they get older. So why is this, one of life’s great successes, so bittersweet? I think a lot of people can relate to your post.
I appreciate that you remind me that fathers experience these bittersweet times as well as the poem focuses on motherhood. Maybe a companion piece telling the joy parents feel in the successful launching of their children would be a good follow-up.
I can relate to this so much! Sent my baby boy off to Colorado for college this past August. My oldest in college but stayed local, until next fall when he’s off to LA (only 2 hours north though). They will always be my baby’s no matter where they are or how old they are. I feel the pain and joy they feel and hope the best for them… I hope they remember all the words of wisdom I’ve shared with them at the times they need it.
Good that you mention the joy, as that far outweighs the pain, doesn’t it?
I love this Laurie, so beautiful and touching.
I appreciate your comment very much. It’s hard to believe how quickly our kids grow up. Cell phones help and photo-texts are the best for making it easier to have them go.
I’m sure your son will do just fine in the Big Apple. He comes from love, and although your heartstrings hurt, you obviously gave your son a good foundation. Good job Mom.
Thank you. He says he loves it there and that makes me very happy.