The Lighthouse

We took their leashes off and watched as they bolted across the sand splashing in the waves, sunlight on their backs, running as fast as their legs would take them. Their excitement over their newfound freedom filled me with happiness. The pups I once held in my palms were now ninety-pound dogs ready to explore the world. They kept going and going until all we could see were two wagging tails in the distance. Worry seeped in. Maybe we gave them too much freedom? What if they got lost or hurt?

Then Smudge suddenly stopped and turned around. We waved. “Hey, we’re over here!” Both pups trotted back to us. The rest of the afternoon followed the same routine. Every time they took off to explore at some point they’d look over their shoulder to see where we were, run to us, and then go off exploring again.

As parents, when our children leave full of excitement and curiosity ready to begin their own adventure we are like the lighthouse that stands tall watching, waiting, shining bright ready to guide them home.