The day you were born I knew I could never let you go.

I put my finger out and you wrapped your little fingers tightly around it. My heart burst and I knew life would never be the same. My heart could never let you go.

As you took your first steps, I reached my arms out to you. You stumbled into me. I cheered and squeezed you. I knew I could never let you go.

When you climbed up the ladder on the playground, your tiny foot slipped while going up the ladder. I was terrified and grabbed you. I knew I could never let you go.

As the bell rang on your first day of school, I squeezed you a little tighter, uncertain of what this new chapter would bring. You were nervous but excited to take on whatever challenges came your way. Your confidence made it so hard to let you go.

When you put on that crisp hat and gown, you looked ready to take on your own adventure. I knew you were ready to go, but I wasn’t.

You brought home a special someone, who you met at school. I could tell from the look on your face when you introduced us that this one was different. I never thought anyone would good enough for you because I couldn’t let you go.

You stepped on the pedestal in a picture perfect, white dress. You turned around with a beaming smile on your face. You glowed like the sun.

What do you think Mom, you asked.

I had to catch my breath. I was speechless. At that moment, as much as I didn’t want to, I knew had to let you go.

“You look so beautiful sweetheart, you’re ready,” I said as a tear rolled down my cheek.

I held your hand through your entire life, and this was your time to shine. It was my time to tell myself that I did my job as a parent and finally let you go. That doesn’t mean I will never be here for you, it just means you can handle life on your own now.

In the future, you may have little ones, and learn give yourself completely but also learn what it means to let go.