When I cuddled and nursed my infants, I was sure I could never love them more than I did right then. They were little miracles, and even though I was exhausted from waking many times a night with them, and overwhelmed wondering if I was doing things right, holding these sweet, soft bundles of preciousness was heaven and I never wanted this season to end.
When I played with my curious toddlers and explored parks and I was their favorite person in the world, I was sure I could never love them more than I did right then. Their hugs filled my heart and their zest for life was contagious. I never wanted this season to end.
When I experienced the world through the eyes of my preschoolers and noticed the smart, caring little humans they were becoming, I was sure I could never love them more than I did right then. Everything was exciting to them, and thus became exciting to me. I filled with love and pride as I watched my children forming friendships and shining so much light into the lives of others. I never wanted this season to end.
When I saw my children discovering their own passions, opinions and gifts during the elementary school years, I was sure I could never love them more than I did right then. They were blossoming before my eyes, encountering challenges that we worked through together. We continued to create precious memories, in the ordinary day-to-day and in the special times like family trips to Disney and traditions built around holidays and celebrating meaningful moments. I never wanted this season to end.
When I beheld my tweens and teens I was both stunned and filled with love and gratitude. I was sure I could never love them more than I did right then. Yes, there were difficult and even ugly moments. That goes with tween and teen territory. But oh my was there ever beauty and connection and FUN! These kids had solid values, chose their friends carefully and were doing amazing things. Competitive Cheer for my daughter and a brief stint with wrestling for my son, which led to a passion for working out. Plus he found the tech side of theater and was an integral part of many awesome productions. And we as parents got to share in all of it! I never wanted this season to end.
Well, now I’m the blessed mom of college kids, kids who continue to hold my heart and bring joy to life. I’m no longer sure that I’ll never love them more than I do right now, because, well, I’ve finally learned that our love for our kids never stops growing. These kids are resilient (they took on this past year with grace) and they are both shining their bright lights in the world. I still cherish their hugs, I laugh with them and they help me to grow. They continue to turn to me for comfort, support and reassurance – and sometimes I turn to them for the same. I may never want this season to end, but I also know better.
Every new season holds precious new beginnings for us to treasure!
