Growing Pains

I have a theory about childhood. 

I believe that the stages of growth over that 18-year span are not really for the kid. 

Yes, all the amazing things that take place in the intricate timeframe from newborn to young adult are truly astonishing.

Yes, that time is hugely vital in all areas of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development, building a foundation for the rest of their lives… and so on and so forth.

However, those 216 months, give or take, carry an additional layer of preparation. And some may even venture to argue that 18 years is not quite long enough. 

Me. I would venture to argue.

Because the developmental stages of parenthood always seem to be one step behind those of childhood. 

Why is that, you may ask?

I have no idea. I just have a theory, I never claimed to have any answers. 

But this I do know. When I say goodbye to elementary school for the very last time this Friday, my graduating 5th grader, the baby of the family, may be completely ready… but I am not.

Even though I feel that a repeat of 5th grade may be in my best interest, childhood marches on. I know I’ll catch up eventually. 

By the time I do, however, I have a sneaking suspicion I’ll be at yet another graduation, wondering how in the world we got here and if I’m prepared for this. 

The answer will be no. I will not be prepared. At least that’s what I’ll be telling my grad as I try to make a case for a second senior year.

But deep down, I know I’ll be ready. I’ll have had 18-plus years of development, preparation, and growth.

It’s just, there’s nothing that really prepares you for the growing pains of parenthood, is there?

So, I’ll keep telling my heart what I tell my achy-legged boy when he can’t sleep.

“It just means you’re growing big and strong. And that’s a good thing.”

Copyright © 2025, All rights reserved.