whatever this life brings

"I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams.
And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things.
I'm here for you whatever this life brings,
So let my love give you roots and help you find your wings.

It's not living if you don't reach for the sky.
I'll have tears as you take off,
But I'll cheer as you fly."

(from "Find Your Wings" by Mark Harris)

I've had this song in my head today.

K.'s principal called this afternoon to say he'd had his first ever explosive outburst at school. As I biked to school to bring him home early, I wondered, "Will I ever have the chance to cheer as he flies?"

Will he have friends? Finish college? Keep a job? Get married? Support a family? Some days I'm not sure. (I'm guessing moms picking size 7 underwear off the floor around the world wonder the same thing.)

Do I just need to redefine what it means to "fly?"

I cheered this week when he read a whole picture book. I cheered today when he used words instead of slamming doors to tell me he needed time alone.

I know that what K. needs more than anything, when life becomes too much for him, when others judge him, is to know that I am here for him, whatever this life brings.

I want to keep reaching for the sky, regardless of how strong K.'s wings may grow.