Letters to My Son:On Your Last 1st Day of School

Dear Pookah,

Twelve years ago I dropped you off for your first day of Kindergarten and I remember getting back in the car and saying omg my baby boy is growing up.

Well, the growing up is almost complete.

First I want to let you know that I am so so proud of you. Every day, every moment.

I am so proud of who you are becoming.

And I know this next year is going to be hectic with classes, and football, and college apps and proms and cap and gowns and decisions that YOU will have to make that will affect the rest of your life.

It’s been both a struggle and easier than expected sometimes, to let go and let you have more freedom to make your own choices.

I know that I am still a bit overprotective, but trust me, you will appreciate it later.

But I suppose at this point, I’m more of a guide, but I’m still your parent.

And parents worry.

I worry about what lesson I forgot to teach, what lesson I still need to teach, did you understand the seriousness of that sex talk that I gave half jokingly?

Did you get the one about black boys riding around in cars?

Do you understand that you are you and that since there is no one alive that is youer than you that you should never try to be anything but that? Ever? ( yes, I misquoted Dr Suess there, but let me live).

Anyway.

We have about 10 more months, give or take a few to make sure you are ready to fly on your own on someone’s college campus.

I know you will still need me and still call me and still want to be around me, but this is the last year where I will have you under my roof everyday.

So if I’m a little clingy…let me live.

Love you, you are going to have an awesome senior year.

Love, Mom.