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.
6 comments:
I have two little sons, and as they gain more independence, I find myself having to trust the Lord more. One day, I'll have to let them go. What a good reminder. We are merely stewards, aren't we?
Thanks for stopping by Our Journey Home and encouraging me with your words.
Mel
Your words are from one seasoned soul to another. They touch my soul in deep ways I can hardly express, but I cherish them. What I'd give to read a novel of your life...
Oh! You are so right - cutting the apron strings is a difficult thing to do! Several years ago when my son sat me down and told me he had joined the army, inside I was screaming "No! No!" But, he was a grown man and had come to that decision after much thought and prayer. It was so difficult to let him go. Then, a few months later when he was in Iraq, though it was a frightening experience, I was comforted by the knowledge that he was just as close to God on the other side of the world as he was here, at home with me. Cutting the apron strings and giving our children over to the strong hands of God is hard. But,trusting that God has a plan in all things, brings peace to our souls.
Thanks for dropping by my prayer blog and leaving your encouraging comment on "Transformation".
Blessings to you, Joan
P.S. Our son came home safe and sound - praise God!
Love your stories Hazel
Thanks, Vicki K.
Hazel:
Although I don't have children, I remember what it was like for my mother to cut the apron strings. At times, I made choices that weren't wise, (as a Christian I still do). However I'm so thankful that God still loves me (in spite of myself).
Thanks for linking up today! I love reading your words of wisdom.
Blessings,
Joan
This just grabbed me. I am presently going through a very sad and "kid"/g-kid fighting situation, sinful in many ways. I've been so heartbroken for the last few days. Turning this heart issue to the Lord is all that counts and all I can do to release the sorrow on me. So, even though I don't think I've been an "apron strings" person, I HAVE been a serious person in many ways, especially when sinfulness is breaking into lives significantly. After reading this, I truly will try to leave the situation in the Lord, not in my heart, and He is obviously bigger than I am, doncha think. Thanks... sharing and timing are practically perfect. Blessings.
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