Elizabeth Stone, the author of “A Boy I Once Knew,” said, “Making the decision to have a child- it is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”

I’m guessing parents of the estimated 2.5 million high school graduates entering college this August and September, understand the reality of Stone’s quote.

My granddaughter, Paisly, moves into her dorm in two weeks. Curious, I asked her, her brother, and her parents, “What are you thinking and feeling as Paisly leaves for college?”

Paisly, the almost college freshman, said, “I am very excited to move onto my next adventure, but I am also deeply saddened and scared by the thought of leaving my hometown and everyone I have grown to love.

“Growing up in a little town has taught me many things: the importance of giving back, to love Friday night football, the consequences of bad choices, how serious school rivalries are, and to brush off gossip. Most importantly, that no matter how much you honk your horn, if you get
stuck behind a tractor,  you are going to be late for school.

“There have already been many tears and hugs, and I am dreading the day I have to leave my family, dog, and lifelong friends. However, I am looking forward to the fresh start. I am excited for the next big chapter in my life to see what the future has in store. I won’t have a curfew, will
explore a different city, learn to live with a roommate, make more friends, and discover things I love.

As I reflect on eighteen years spent in Sterling, I have been unbelievably blessed. I will never forget where I came from. I find comfort in knowing my town will always have my back, and if the big world gets too mean, I know I am still welcomed back.”

Ryder, her younger brother, said, “It’s sad but kind of happy. One of my best friends is leaving; I won’t have anyone to talk to. But then, it is sort of a good thing because she won’t yell at me anymore and tell me how to do things I am already doing right. It will be a lot quieter in a
bad way.”

Her dad said, “I don’t know what to say. Excited and anxious yet nervous with a degree of sorrow. I am so excited for her and hope she enjoys it and has many great experiences. I am also sad to see her move on in her journey, and I will really miss her.”

Her mom said, “I’m so excited for Paisly to go to college and experience all that goes with it. I’m so proud of her for having the courage to spread her wings even though it is very scary. I know that I’m going to miss her like crazy and our whole family will feel like something is
missing. So, I guess I am excited, proud, scared, and sad all at the same time.”

As Paisly’s grandma, I feel apprehension for her safety, compassion for hard lessons she will learn, and hopefulness for her dreams.

So there you have it: A small sample of what families all over the country could be thinking and feeling while their most precious go off to college.

My best to each and every one.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

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