I think I speak for most moms when I say:

Now that you are all grown and living your lives on your own terms, you may not need me in the same way you once did. You may think you don’t need me at all anymore, and that’s okay. You are on a brand-new journey in your life filled with dreams and possibilities. There is a world of wonder ahead of you.

You may find that there are times I am annoying. My need to be your mommy is still strong and it is going to take me some time to learn to adjust to my new role as a mom of adult children. You see, I still want to protect you from the hurt in the world. I want to guide you away from making decisions that I feel are wrong, and want to steer you to what I know is right based on my own mistakes and experiences.

But what I am realizing is that just because something was right for me, doesn’t mean it will be right for you. Things I found to be important in my life you may have your own opinions about. Just because I made mistakes in the past doesn’t mean you will make the same mistakes. The journey you are on now is very different than the one I was on at your age for many reasons, but most importantly because you are unique in your own right.

No matter what our differences may be, I want you to know how much I love and admire you. Each of you faces this world with love, companion, and empathy for everyone you meet. You have a fire inside you that is guiding you to your own dreams.

You have your own God-given strengths whether it be determination, stubbornness, the patience of a saint, or the rebellious nature that drives me crazy; those gifts will help guide you to your purpose, to your dreams. Please always make sure that you see your strengths rather than focusing on what you perceive as weaknesses because my sweet babies, you have none.

I know I have made my mistakes as a mom and will continue to do so. As you were growing up I did my best to do what I thought was right for you, and as adults, I continue to do the same. Finding the balance between being supportive and giving you the space and freedom you want is not an easy thing to grasp. Please don’t see my support as meddling, and not for one second see my giving you freedom as a sign that I don’t care, because my babies, I love you more than you could ever imagine.

I know some of these mistakes have hurt you. Please know how truly sorry I am. If I could go back in time and change my mistakes I certainly would. Also remember that those mistakes were my own, not yours, and you should never feel weighed down by them. You do not walk in my shadow, but in your own light shining around you.

As you become parents yourself which some of you already have, I am and will continue to be beaming with pride because I know the truly phenomenal people you have become will be instilled in your own children. The same values you hold will shape your own babies into such wonderful people.

Lastly, I ask that you be patient with me. As hard as parenting and raising children are, it is harder to be the parent of an adult child sitting on the sidelines. I am hoping I get better at it soon. Until then, I trust that God will be by your side, guiding you on your journey.