I remember the day like it was yesterday. The C-section was nearly over and the umbilical cord was being cut. The cry of a newborn could be heard and my son entered the world. Just like that, caring for him inside of the womb became caring for him in the “real world” and quite frankly, I never could have guessed that day how tough parenthood can sometimes be. The amounts of sheer happiness and also the fear. Parenting is definitely a roller coaster and I loved every minute of it.

Then came the next cut—the day my son moved out of the house to live many states away. To say this was difficult is an understatement. This cut was different. While I was still mom, I was thousands of miles away. No more daily hugs. No more in-person nighttime “I love you.” No more coffees together. It cut like a knife right through my emotions. Just writing about it has tears welled up in my eyes.

Now, you may think I’m being a bit dramatic here, but please let me explain and defend my mamma heart.

When our daughter moved out, it was still difficult and yet, our son was still at home. She also only moved two miles away, not 2,000. In addition, the pandemic also changed things. For the last two years, my husband, son and I had literally functioned as a unit. We would separate for work once work opened, but for a year, we were all working from home. We created little areas in the house for each of us to work or study. We came together for meals. This last year, we were back at our workplaces, but we still ate together and helped each other with meals, doggy duties, etc. I was so used to my son coming upstairs and greeting us when he opened the door, that parts of the house now feel like a ghost town.

Then my dad said something to me: “Deb, you’ve cut the umbilical cord. It’s time for the young man to become a man.” Now at some level I’m sure I knew this, but when my dad said it, it landed differently. Yes, my son was ready. It is time for him to take his next steps in life. Just like the baby moved out of the womb, he is moving into manhood. It’s a new season. In fact, I realized that since the first umbilical cord had been cut, he had been preparing for this second cut of the umbilical cord—and if I may add with confidence, he is ready. There will be new lessons and learning. There will be new challenges. He has the strength, problem-solving skills and tenacity to get through them. And thanks to modern technology, I’m also only a phone call, ZOOM, FaceTime or even 3-hour flight away. Whew. A little relief there for the momma heart and soul.

Friends—this is just like life. Everything we do prepares us for the next step and what we do and teach by example mentors and supports others. Yes, we could shrink back and hide—what would that really accomplish? I am excited for this next chapter—not only for my son, but for me. I have things in life I am ready to do and now is that time. An umbilical cord can be metaphoric for so many things in our lives. Too often we hold on too long and don’t cut that which is ready to be cut—toxic relationships, things we don’t really want to do…you get the idea. What are the umbilical cords in your life ready to be cut and set free—either in service for another or in service to you? I’d love to hear about them.