They Will Only Be Small for a Little While

Written By: Felecia Causey

Photography: Felecia Causey

If you want to know how much time has passed, look at your child. When a child no longer wants to be treated as a baby, the days of holding their small hands or sitting in your lap will stop. Children grow quickly, and the tiny child you once looked down on will now be taller than you. Nurturing your child's emotions allows them to express themselves while remaining sensitive to others. 

A mother understands that her child will learn to be independent, and with her loving support, they will grow into a young and respectful adult. Parents will make mistakes because nobody is flawless. I believe my role as a mother has a significant impact on how kids are raised. We want to be involved in every tiny detail of his life, but at an early age, I had to learn that self-restraint in setting boundaries is very important.

As parents, we are automatically protective. We want them to be healthy, avoid hurting their feelings, and succeed. I'm learning that, as much as I love them, I can't be overbearing. One of my favorite performers once said, "A mother is a child's first love." I believe it.

You believe you have all the time in the world to hug, watch cartoons, and give adorable kisses, but "you blink your eyes," and they grow up so quickly. The light of your life, the person for whom you would give your life, must grow up. We must shift our focus from what we can no longer do with them to the future. Many mothers may be unaware that their child is maturing right in front of their eyes.

As you get a front-row ticket to witness them grow up, remember that your child is still the precious little baby that you brought home from the hospital. 

A mother will be confronted with the reality that she has no control over time. It's difficult to remember how quickly the first smiles, laughs, crawls, and walks will seem like distant memories. Try not to waste time thinking about negative things and instead develop recollections of positive accomplishments. I am an advocate for family photography; preserving all of life's experiences will be extremely important one day. You can't go back in time, so live each day and treasure the moments. 

It will move you to tears to think of the incredible young adult they will become.

"Mom, treasure this moment because it will pass so quickly. Make sure you take it all in. All you can do is pour love into them, and that child will one day walk boldly and confidently on their own path. As difficult as it is, you will have to let go and enjoy your child's independence while knowing you did your best."