All Grown Up

I have a headache and could NOT wait to get home to change out of everything and sit and stare at the wall, TV, ANYTHING.  Then, I received a call…it was my “other” son.  I have “adopted” many of these “other” sons over the years.  They have stayed at my house, swam in my pool, gotten in trouble together, and have EATEN ME OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME!

It was a simple request, “Do you mind if I come over your house for a little bit?”  Even though the headache was still there, my answer was simply “yes, no problem.”  Plans were being made via text and phone calls to my Shaun in Chicago.  Headache still in tow, I was asked if I could take them to the train station to get to my Shaun, their best friend since a very young age.  My eyes could be falling out of my sockets and head exploding and the answer would always be “yes.”  It makes me smile they are all still friends after all these years.

I hate the thought they are all growing up, and growing up in all ways.  When I was asked about giving a ride to the train station, the next question was, “Do you need any gas money?”  First of all, “What?”  Second of all, I would never take money.  I thought to myself, what a grownup thing to do!  I know adults who would never offer money, but a young adult is offering money so he can see his buddy, my son.  When it comes to Shaun’s friends, they are never trouble.  I picture myself as a candle in a candelabra, and Shaun and his friends are the surrounding candles, all beautifully lit.  True, there may be some flames that have been extinguished from the circle of candles, unfortunately; there are many that are lit and burning strong.

All these “sons” used to look up at me.  When I spoke to them, I would look down.  Now, as hugs are exchanged, I am looking up into their eyes.  Until my flame has been extinguished, I will continue to burn strong for all my “sons,” both blood and adopted.