Dull Scissors Talk
I dreaded the start of school, because our oldest is a senior. During the last weeks of summer, he began to frustrate me with his choices. I asked my husband what our son was doing and he said he was asserting his independence. He was getting ready to move on.
"What? He can probably get ready to move on the night before he leaves for college." I said.
My husband gave me a half smile and shook his head, knowing there was no reasoning with me.
I thought about it and decided it was time for the talk. No not the talk, the old dull scissors talk.
So I caught him alone one afternoon and kept it brief.
"This year is going to be very hard on me," I said. "But I don't want to spend it with you trying to prove your independence and us fighting all the time. So I'm simply going to give you a lot of independence and freedom. You bend a little for me and I'll bend a lot for you. I will let you go when it's time for college."
He agreed and seemed relieved.
We'll still disagree and get frustrated with the other's perceived lack of understanding. But I will start cutting the apron strings. (You young ladies can thank me now and later!)
I just never said I'd use the sharp scissors. It's a momma's prerogative.
Audra Krell 
Excellent advice – and yes, it will take you all year, and yes, communication will take on unprecedented and unique challenges, and yes, dull scissors are a momma’s prerogative. Oh, and you might want to keep a needle and thread handy in case you need to re-attach an apron string or two.
Um, I'm not so good on the sewing. Do staples or paper clips work?
I don’t envy you Audra… I have 2 more years, but I know they will go so fast!!! Good luck!
Loved your advice!!!
Josie
Thank you Josie. They do go way, way too fast.
Audra…it’s a difficult time to face as a mother, but it does have some benefits too! You’ll see. You’re son is becoming a man. 🙂