Cut the Apron Strings

 


The announcement by our young son that he wanted to purchase a motorcycle touched a spark in me that caused my hair to stand on end.

Although he was old enough to drive one, I refused to even consider the thought. I suppose I was a domineering Mom and I was also a bit strict.

But mom, I already have a job lined up to deliver packages for a courier service - - and this cycle belonged to the lady who had this job before. She is asking a very good price for it and it will be a safe bike.

About that time, my husband entered the room having heard the conversation. He gently came along side me and whispered in my ear,

“Hazel it is time to cut the apron strings!” 

That remark was like cold water thrown on my face, and it did wake me up.

“All-right,” I told our son, “but let Dad go with you and if he thinks it is a good buy, you can go ahead with your plans.” A Happy boy purchased his cycle and he also got the job.

He did enjoy the money that this after school job gave him, and I noticed that he had purchased an extra helmet.

One day, here he came, with one of the girls from our church perched on the back of the cycle, both as happy as jay birds. He was observing all the rules of safety and also enjoying the prestige that this small cycle gave him.

Children do grow up, and when they are responsible and hopefully wise - - it is time to allow them to make adult choices.

As our children reached adulthood, there have been times that I have had to say, “Well I don’t approve, but you are old enough to know right from wrong, so I thank you for at least telling me what you plan to do.”

I have learned to cut the strings even when it is painful. The worse part is that cutting the apron strings can hurt the mother and sometimes also the child as she releases her hold on her babies.

I am reminded that God has cut the apron strings on us and permits us to make decisions.

Not all choices are so good for us, but God allows us to make our own mistakes.

At other times, the Lord is pleased with us as he sees us “happy as jay birds” enjoying the pleasures of riding (or walking) on the path he has laid out for us.

Although I do not consider the Holy Spirit to be apron strings, I do appreciate that He walks along side me and whispers in my ear – I am with you always; where ever you go.