I actively seek out reasons for gratitude in my daily existence, focusing on the positive aspects of every situation.
However, certain realities present significant challenges for me to accept.
These include my Mom's dementia and the absence of many cherished family members in Heaven.
These truths bring a deep sorrow to my heart, and sometimes I must allow myself to grieve instead of laughing.
Another difficult aspect of life I came to recognize was something personal to me.
This realization struck me 2 years ago on the day this little boy:
completed High School.
Our eldest, Brad,
I do not frequently share parenting experiences here on Bildirimlerim; it is deeply important to me, yet I feel unqualified to offer advice.
Still, I aspire to offer the best guidance possible.
My three boys are loved by me completely.
I felt I handled the start of Kindergarten well when I waved goodbye from the school bus.
I was not the type of mother who wept uncontrollably as her young children left for school.
I believed this was beneficial; I wished for them to grow, learn, and experience life beyond my influence.
I was unaware that the true difficulty would arrive years later, on graduation day.
Several more years have passed, and our second oldest, Joel, is graduating from High School.
Joel.
My heart once again feels a sharp ache as the concept of 'releasing' turns into tangible experience.
This 'letting go' signifies the end of a treasured period: a family of 5 residing together in the same home daily.
It also means trusting that the lessons imparted will support them through the challenging aspects of the real world.
Fundamentally, 'letting go' involves saying farewell.
This aspect proves the most challenging for me.
It is what causes me sleepless nights and a physical stomach discomfort.
Yet, after acknowledging my sadness, I recall that 'letting go' should also be viewed as a joyful occasion.
Remembering cherished moments.
Embracing fresh starts.
A time for new connections, learning, and pursuing goals.
This is what awaits us this week.
Marking a graduation.
I am wiping away my tears.
It is time for a celebration!
Well done, Joel.
Having you in our lives has brought us immeasurable blessings. Even though you were called Brett Alan for a brief period, I am delighted you soon became our Joel Mark.
There is no other way I can picture it...
{Also, my sons possess notable skill in developing facial hair. Just after this brief photo session, Joel removed his beard. Should we repeat the process?}
