Chasing the Endless Summer just ended for Matthew. Out the door this morning and off to Raleigh to report for work with the videography crew at NC State Athletics, he’ll be accumulating a little walking-around money before school starts in a few short weeks, but also starting that slow, then faster walk into adulthood as he learns to make his way in the world without the direct oversight of mom and dad.
It was a poignant, bittersweet moment: With one last hug and a goodbye, our family dynamic changed once again. Tearing up as I told him how proud I was of him and the young man he has become, I held on just a little longer than usual with this last hug as I verbally said goodbye, but emotionally said farewell to the boy I’ve tried so hard to nurture, guide, and otherwise be there to catch when he falls for the last 18 years. Good, bittersweet tears.
But I don’t worry about Matthew. I’ve watched him time and time again make things happen, apply common sense and creativity into everything he does, and always–always–find the silver linings in life. I also rest easy because he leaves clues as to how he’ll handle this new frontier. Although he wasn’t leaving until 9:30 this morning, when I got home last evening, here is what greeted me at the door: completely packed and ready to take on his new life.
They say the apple doesn’t fall very far from the tree. If I’m the tree for this good apple, then I guess I’ve done okay. Your dad is very proud of you, Matthew. Very proud, indeed.