A Mother's Reflection: Watching My Sons Grow








Last week, I had the pleasure of staying for a few nights with two of my adult sons. As a mother of sons, I often find myself grappling with the bittersweet reality of watching them grow up, fall in love, and sometimes feeling like they don’t need me anymore. They start out so small, so dependent, constantly looking to you for the answers to all their questions and the mysteries of the world. Then, before you know it, they grow into men with their own lives, loves, and dreams.

There are moments, though, that make me so incredibly proud of the men my sons have become. If you had told me when they were little that these would be the things that bring tears of pride to my eyes, I would have laughed. But here I am, and here they are, and these are the things that fill my heart with joy:

  1. They spend time together without being told to. Watching my sons choose to spend time together, to share their lives and experiences, is something I never take for granted. It shows a bond that has transcended childhood and blossomed into a deep, genuine friendship. Their laughter, their shared stories, their mutual support—it's everything a mother could hope for.
  2. They give to others with joy. My second son is part of the CFA (Country Fire Authority) and he loves it. Seeing him give his time, energy, and compassion to help others, to be there in times of crisis, fills me with pride. It's a testament to his character, to the kindness and selflessness that he carries within him.
  3. They have their own views on life, politics, and religion. Some of these views are different from mine, but they are views that they can argue and articulate, and most importantly, they live by them. They have grown into thoughtful, intelligent men who stand by their beliefs and respect the beliefs of others. This independence of thought, this strength of character, is something I cherish deeply.

As a mother, it's easy to remember the days when they were little, when their world revolved around me. It’s natural to feel a pang of loss as they grow and their world expands. But then I look at them, at the men they have become, and my heart swells with pride and love. They are kind, thoughtful, independent, and brave. They are everything I hoped they would be and more.

Last week, as I spent those precious few days with my sons, I was reminded of the incredible journey of motherhood. From the sleepless nights and endless questions to the moments of pure joy and pride, it’s a journey that shapes not only them but also me. And as I reflect on who they have become, I realize that while they may not need me in the same way, they will always be my boys, and I will always be their mum.

In these moments of reflection, I find myself wiping away tears—not of sadness, but of overwhelming gratitude. For the privilege of being their mother, for the journey we have shared, and for the men they have become.

 

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