When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child.
But when I grew up, I put away childish things.
1 Corinthians 13:11 (NLT)
The picture above is of my oldest son, Dustin. He will be 21 right after Christmas this year. I miss the days of him reaching up to grab my hand as I answered endless questions about why bugs are the way they are. I’m so blessed though as he’s grown into a man and I’m so proud to call him my son.
He epitomizes everything that comes to mind when I hear the word cowboy. He’s hard working, honest, tough and gritty. He stands up for what he believes in and can be stubborn to a fault. He has a huge respect and genuine care for animals. He tries hard to listen and learn from those who have been ranching longer but is also finding his voice to throw new idea’s out.
He comes from a long line of people that work hard and joke around just as hard. He didn’t fall far from the tree on that one either! He’s not bashful about who and what he is and you can either like him or not, your choice. It won’t change him. I love that there is no shame for him to hug me or tell me he loves me in front of others.
We have our disagreements, as families will, but he’s quick to apologize if he needs to. Just as quick to point out if it’s me that needs to do the apologizing!
We were gathering cows a couple of years ago and I was telling him what he needed to do way more than any kid needs. He waited, with more patience than I could have ever mustered myself, until we got to the corral to say, “Mom, when you look at me on this horse, do you still see a 7 year old boy? Cause that’s what you’re treating me like.” He didn’t say it snippy but very matter of fact and it was a reminder I needed.
There’s something to be said for being called out in truth and love. A bit of an abrupt wake up call out of some sort of dreamy fog we’ve dragged our heels on leaving. Our eyes are finally wide open and we fully grasp the truth and realize it’s a beautiful thing to see.
It’s an immense challenge for many of us mama’s to see our children growing up and maturing. On one hand, we know what’s best for them and cheer them on to maturity and independence. On the other hand, how sweet would it be for them remain little’s forever.
Spiritual maturity is of the utmost importance however. As a parent we guide them and show them what a relationship with God looks like but it’s up to them in the long run to walk out that relationship in their own way.
Children grow and mature and we bless them as we watch them walk forward into adulthood. Supporting them to the best of our abilities, all the while, stepping back to allow them to make their own decisions. Prayerfully trusting God through it all.
Hi Laura! I'm visiting you from the Linkup today and I so much enjoyed reading your post and the illustration you used to amplify a powerful truth. We just returned from watching our little grown-up daughter run the Army 10 Miler race in Washington DC, modeling character and discipline as the busy homeschool mom of four children. How quickly the time flies! Savoring every moment is key! Love the pic of your son, the cowboy!
Blessings to you!
Pam
Hi there Laura,
While it's hard to let go of our "kids", it's a wonderful and comforting thing to know that they are indeed independent *and* obedient to the Lord at the same time.
You must be very proud of him 🙂
We're neighbors over at Holley's today ~ and I'm so glad I stopped in to read this sweet and honoring article.
Enjoyed your story. As a mom of a son who is off to a Christian Leadership school I know what a wonderful dance that is between seeing the 7 year old and the grown man. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for sharing your insights about adult children.
I have learned that many times the less I say, the farther it goes. If that makes sense. lol.
God has certainly blessed you in your relationship with your son. 🙂
Hi Pam, that is just awesome about your daughter running the Army 10 miler. Time sure does fly. Thank you so much for stopping by. God bless you.
Hi Caryn, I'm so proud of both of my son's. They've matured into fine young men. It was hard at first to see them not need me as much but my sweet husband reminded me, "This is what your goal was Mom, well done." I needed that reminder. So glad we're neighbors at Holley's! Thanks for stopping in and taking the time to comment. God bless you.
Sheryl, that is great about your son. Excited for him and you. Thanks for stopping by, God bless you.
So true Karen! The less we say sure can go farther. Living our lives in obedience to God and living out our faith for our kids to see has as much if not more impact than anything we could say or preach at them. I'm truly blessed with my son. Thanks so much for stopping by! God bless you.