Sometimes we get lucky and time stands still
Go all in.
This is a season of more feelings than words.
You might have seen on my Instagram or Facebook accounts that my oldest graduated from high school this week. I’ve been writing online since he was two years old, and one of the most important things that learning and growing as a mother has taught me is to embrace the small everyday moments.
But here’s the problem: I love everyday life raising a family. I love all five of us living together and never wanted that to change.
I knew it would change, but I tried not to count the days. Anytime I’d catch myself doing the math, I’d stop and remind myself that I still had time.
The problem with time, there’s never enough.
Here’s something I wrote on Instagram this week. Even though the subject matter is specific to my season of life, I’m sharing it here in case it resonates with anyone saying goodbye to something, ready or not.
For 12+ years, the end of the school year has made me nostalgic, and I’m in the thick of it now. Even though I saw it coming, it also felt impossible.
Graduation week is here.
I don’t think anyone can fully prepare for so much change, so many big feelings, so much anticipation, so much holding on and letting go all at once.
Yesterday, I took Dillon to Moe’s for lunch and remembered how, when he was little, I always let him eat the cookie first.
This time, I gave Dillon some advice. When my voice cracked, and I could barely make it through without crying, I realized the message was also for me.
Be here.
Be present.
Listen to the sound of your name being called—really hear it. Cheer for your friends, and cheer for yourself. Cheer for the children you watched grow up alongside your own.
Look around.
See the faces.
Feel the hugs.
Shed the tears.
Take a few pictures and be done. The moments we remember are the ones we experience fully.
This moment in time is rich with every emotion. It’s going to be full of joy, and it’s also going to hurt. Feel it all. Take it all in—the celebrations and the pageantry, the quiet moments of uncertainty when you feel unsettled about what’s next.
Take your time. Don’t rush this part. Remember to breathe. And it’s ok if you want to have the cookie before you eat your lunch.
And here are some scenes from graduation day.
Sometimes life moves too fast. And sometimes we get lucky, and time stands still.
First time here?
I’m Angie Mizzell, the author of the coming-of-age memoir “Girl in the Spotlight.” It’s the story of my life before I became a mom. It’s about learning to let go of society’s narrow definition of success, breaking cycles of the past, and coming home to myself.
I’m glad you’re here! If you enjoyed this week’s newsletter, please share it!
Okay, you made me cry! Happy now? We love you guys!
So much love, Angie!