Holding tight,
I don’t want to let go.
His warm, soft cheek
pressed against mine.
Chest to chest,
heartbeat against heartbeat,
racing in time.
I hear a whimper
as his arms tighten
around me.
***
Children run and scream
with delight around us.
The noise is jarring,
adding to my nerves.
***
I feel like I’m juggling
emotions and possessions.
Backpack slung over one shoulder,
car keys clenched in my fist.
My pride and joy nestled in my arms.
***
Holding back the tears,
I want to be brave for him.
I’ve spent nights awake
thinking about this moment.
What if he thinks
I’ve abandoned him?
Is he too young for this?
He's just a baby.
***
And finally, as a
single tear slides
down my face,
I let go.
***
I turn and leave.
I can’t look back.
About the Creator
Sandy Gillman
I’m a mum to a toddler, just trying to get through the day. I like to write about the ups and downs of parenting. I’m not afraid to tell it like it is. I hope you’ll find something here to laugh, relate to, and maybe even learn from.
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Comments (11)
It is so tough!❤️
"Your story truly touched me. It's not just words—it's a reflection of strength, truth, and human experience. Keep writing, the world needs more voices like yours."
This moment is truly heartbreaking especially to a mom.
Very poignant… you captured the emotion well. I especially like: “ I feel like I’m juggling emotions and possessions. Backpack slung over one shoulder, car keys clenched in my fist. My pride and joy nestled in my arms.”
This was powerful. The moment when it's time to put him down. The mix of emotions stirring ready to explode. But his little arms tighten around you. Feeling like the only decision is to be seen as less of what you wish and more of what you aren't. Too tired to give more, but awake enough to let go as a single tear slide down your face. Oh how easy it is to want to push on. Cute little face, tiny little fingers. The little voice that wants, whether it's screaming with delight or crying to be picked up. But like you said at the end. You turn to leave, and you can't look back. You're doing great mama!. (I got home, took a nap and here I am as promised.🤗❤️
Aww Sandy unmatchable love of a mother. Wonderfully expressed @Sandy Gillman
Wow, gone for a little while and feels like you abandoned him-that's love alright.
Bless your hearts. That has to be tough... Sending you a big hug!
Omgggg, I've never thought of it this way, that they could think that we have abandoned them. Gosh that breaks my heart so much. Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️
This made me want to run and wrap my arms around my boys. These days I'm the one who clings to them when it's time to say goodbye. Great job creating volumes of emotion with so few words.
I know the feeling. Excellent imagery and emotion