Pride and Panic

As a child you think that adults aren't scared of anything.  But then you have a child of your own and you realize that the world can be a terrifying place when your heart is walking around in it in purple size 5 sandals.  The conflict of wanting her to grow and become her own person versus the unthinkable thoughts of what could happen when you let her out of her safe little bubble, I am guessing, never completely resolves itself.

 

My beautiful beach baby, pure joy in a swimsuit running full speed towards the ocean.

No fear.

Squealing with delight as the water swirls around her legs.

Twisting from Daddy’s grasp to venture into deeper waters.

Pride coupled with panic as we realize our daughter is bold and daring in the face of endless water and crashing waves.

He lets her go just a little farther but only a quick grab away.

In this brief moment, I see the future. 

Our baby growing up, pulling away from our protective arms to make her own discoveries, make her own mistakes.

Us behind her to cheer her on, help her up when a wave knocks her down,  guide her when she’s in danger, and carry her when it all gets to be too much. 

I pray we always know which one she needs, and that she forgives us for holding on too tight sometimes.