Reflecting...

Hermann and Mathilde (née Biewend) Koch and Children
with Helene Biewend and Children at Clausthal
Hermann Carl Eduard Biewend14 June 1854

The shared (I think) goal of parents through the ages is to love, protect and teach our children in preparation for fulfilling lives. As such, it is both scary and exhilerating when our young ones begin steps toward independence... the first time they stumble, literally and metaphorically, is challenging for parents; tugging at our heart strings as we imagine dangers and also begin to understand our limitations in protecting our off-spring on the road to indepence, and most-certainly when they arrive at that destination.

I'm intrigued by the stories that this photograph may tell. Young ones in various moods, Father comfortably hugging his son and wife, Mother's body language perhaps indicating that a scolding was needed only moments before...

Recent events have reminded many within my work-based circle of the importance of valuing every moment with our children, the unpredictability of life and our limitations to protect our young ones on the road to independence. I think that we have all hugged our children a little tighter or sent virtual hugs across the miles over the past 48 hours.

You might also consider doing the same.