Oh, the deadlines, test dates, pictures, invitations, test scores, applications, conversations and far away visits that happen in the last lap.

The tears flow unexpectedly and without warning. The memories flood in like a cold, hard rain, and the expectations burst forth like a bright ray of sunshine.

There’s apprehension, excitement, fears, doubts and joys to be had.

Your heart desires to hold on tightly, clinging to all that has been, not wanting to extricate or even peek ahead.

Yet, your head knows the day comes and waits for no man, understanding this is all you’ve worked toward since the day your eyes first met.

Your hands acknowledge the time is beckoning him to fly, and there will be no flight if they don’t release their grasp.

Your soul understands if there is no surrender, his wings will be clipped, and the sorrow will be grave for all involved.

Your feet can feel the earth begin to tremble; you question is that the ground or the foundation of your dreams.

For they’re no longer your hopes, your visions, your aspirations; they must become his as he pursues the calling within.

The smiles savored and the grief in farewell is intermingled with the confidence and exhilaration of the promises yet to come.

As you cheer him on for this last lap that will count for a lifetime of yesterdays and tomorrows.

Penned – MG – 12/10/19