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I saw you as you entered the world, and left the place of warmth I had for you.

I watched you sleep in a crib that seemed  much too large for you, and I prayed for the day God would draw you to him, and multiply your talents, to glorify and honor Him; to step into that place of presence He had for you.

I saw you leave my arms, take your first steps, and leave that place of safety I had for you.

I watched you walk into school, in a smart red polo nearly hidden by a backpack the size of you, leaving the home & shelter I had for you.

I watched you pack your things, preparing to move to a new state & culture. This time I was going with you, headed toward a new life, and we both left the place of familiarity God had for us.

I cheesily snapped your picture on your first day as a senior in high school, in a smart orange polo, this time a backpack dwarfed by your grown-up stature. You were leaving the place of childhood I once had for you, and it was time.

I watched you unzip a big orange suitcase, ready to pack for a new adventure - an opportunity only God could have laid out for you, for who knew that someday my prayers would be so sweetly answered, and your gifts and talents would bless and encourage countless people? Only He knew, and you are now leaving the place of nurturing and providence I have had for you.

You will discover God's providence & tender mercies toward you. It is time.

And if you see me cry, it is with tears of joy and thankfulness.I am thankful that God has equipped you & called you, and that you are obediently going. I am thankful for the infinite ways you have blessed my life, my heart, and our family. I will miss you dearly, and be oh, so happy to see you when you grace my doorway again. I love you, like you, adore you, and am so very proud of you. Go with my blessing, my son.