I am resharing this poem in honor of all the parents attending graduations this month. Congratulations. New adventures await.
The running shoes you left behind
positioned like you evaporated from them
angled as if deserted mid-step
have me wondering
were you ready
to move on to an unknown life
stuffing skills and memories in a backpack
experiences overflowing from unzipped pockets
your back receding into the distance
I have learned the answer to
Are you ever ready?
© Ali Grimshaw
flashlight batteries - Ali Grimshaw 
stuffing skills and memories in a backpack
experiences overflowing from unzipped pockets
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Thank you for your reflection Kirsten.
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I don’t think we’re ever ready for our children to grow up and start their own lives, but once they do, we realize that our relationship with them isn’t broken at all. It’s just different. And that makes it okay.
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Agreed, I love all the stages of seeing my sons grow into independence. They continue to teach me so much every day.
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Once a parent always a parent.
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Yes, have a beautiful day!
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To the next life journey! 👏👏👏
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Thanks Amy. I know that I will never run out of things to do, places to explore and people to meet.
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💖 🙂
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Lovely. Looking ahead to new paths and adventures.
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Thank you Miriam. Being a parent is the most challenging and best adventure of my lifetime. Enjoy every minute of the ride.
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It certainly is and always will be. You too Ali.
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