This morning I shared a sweet video on my Instagram of my middle son and I dancing to Boston by Stella Lefty. This is something we do a lot - Jack sets up my phone and we perform in the kitchen together. But this particular performance caught me off guard. Throughout the video you can see him looking up at me with sparking eyes and the most genuine smile on his face. I could see that this moment meant everything to him.
My boys are all interested in different things. Jack, my 8 year old, loves to sing and dance. A natural performer! But it is a quality that most of his friends don’t publicly share. When I encourage him to share his gifts he immediately dismisses them. But at home he loves to embrace this side of himself. All I could see in his sweet, sparkly eyes as we were dancing together was “thank you.”
I watched the video again and again. Thinking to myself how lucky I am to validate my kids’ passions. To witness them find their confidence, feel safe and carefree. Watching them express themselves gives me permission to do the same. This is what I mean when I say it is an honor to be a mother. To validate all of their dreams and make them believe they are possible!
The thing about motherhood is that you love the present, look forward to the future and mourn the passing of time all in the same breath. You blink and realize certain seasons are over before you had a chance to say goodbye. Luckily being a cheerleader for your kids is a season the never ends. To every mom mourning how fast it goes: ugh me too!! So we dance in the kitchen. We cheer on their little passions like they're the biggest thing in the world (because to them, they are). Even when we are tired, even when it's the hundredth time! It is an honor to get a front row seat to who they're becoming. We can't slow it down, but we can be all the way in it. WHAT A GIFT!!!
Thanks for being here and reading my brain dumps. xo
This was such a great piece Liz!!! It was the best reminder. Thanks!!
ugh the best. also we remember the justin bieber obsession!!