The Open House

I grappled with my cell phone camera as I tried to take a picture of my son driving his car. On our way to the college’s open house. The college he chose to go to. As dark clouds loomed over the distant mountains, I was able to capture a silhouette of my son’s familiar physique and was contented though a little dark the photo seemed.

The parking lots were half-full, expected as it was on a weekend and some regular classes were not open. There was a throng of parents with excited would-be freshmen already crossing the intersection from the marked parking lot for those wanting to explore this college’s programs. Like the three of us.

A mixed emotion started to grow in my heart as a mother. Concerned for even the littlest details. For who, as a loving parent, would never want the “best” for their children? My child that soon would be driving farther distances and would continue to advance his knowledge. Apart from what my husband and I shared and continue to share.

The atmosphere from everyone working there was very friendly and welcoming. The anxiety from that “motherly concern” of mine was slowly being replaced minute by minute with very informative lecture about the degree my son wanted to pursue and the appearance of the campus itself. It felt as if I was the student who would go here to study that I got excited myself as I observed the convenience of how near the  Student Services, the bookstore, the campus store, and the different little restaurants and coffee shop were to the building where he would go as Fall Semester starts this year.

My son…our little baby then…was not a baby anymore but a man. Ready to explore and be challenged. Yet, as a concerned parent, aware of all challenges this life would offer. There would be moments of triumphs. There would also be moments of defeat. There would be moments of joy and laughter. But there would also be moments of sadness and tears. This life, like a labyrinth…where each person’s goal would be to pursue “true happiness”. His path definitely would be changing course.

We stood for a moment…Out in the sun that came out from hiding from the dark clouds that were blown away suddenly by chilly winds. We marveled at the campus’ beauty. Of how diverse the population was. Like them, I knew my son would have to find his happiness to fulfill his life’s goals. But with uncertainties. At times.

After having a great lunch from our favorite burger joint, we headed home. Grateful that we attended the Open House this morning. Grateful that despite the uncertainties and all the labyrinths of life, my son could continue to move on because we all knew, thanks be to God, that it wasn’t about seeing things BY SIGHT that would help him find that “true happiness”…It was SEEING BY FAITH. No matter what challenges would come, only by God’s grace my son could accomplish his endeavors. For none could comfort and strengthen and help one to endure…but God…And Him alone…

“Don’t forget to say ‘Thank You Lord’,” I reminded my son as I took a sip of the cold drink I still held in my hand. 

“Thank You, Lord,” he uttered under his breath as he tried to concentrate with the pile of cars driving on the busy road.

Yes…Faith…That’s what matters…For where can one go but under His wings to feel safe and fearless?

“Thank You, Lord!”

“For giving us the opportunity to go to the college’s Open House…But most of all for Your Open Arms…Ready to welcome us when we are wounded, puzzled, weak or broken…”