Not All Heroes Wear Capes

It's been a big month for our family.

So many milestones.

As I watched my son line up to accept his diploma yesterday, I thought my heart might literally explode.

They say not all heroes wear capes, and this is so true.

Some push through life, fighting against great challenges with quiet stoicism.

Taking it all in, struggling and falling down, but always getting back up and somehow finding their way through.

And ultimately, rising above it all.

You would never guess to look at him that he is fighting a battle every day against his own body.

It took me 40 years before I found the perspective on life that he has at eighteen.

He is my hero.

I aspire to be like him when I grow up.

His future is so bright, despite what lies ahead of him as he gets older.

Maybe actually because of it.

I've always said that our struggles make us stronger. And I believe that those who never struggle are actually at a disadvantage in life.

As much as I wanted my boys to have an easier childhood than mine, I always tried to let them feel the consequences of their actions.

So they could learn from them.

So they could grow and understand themselves more along the way.

Most importantly, so they could build the confidence they need to survive in this difficult world.

I wanted them to be able to hold their heads high, knowing that they own their actions and can conquer just about anything life throws at them.

I think they're well on their way there.

The list of emotions I'm feeling today is long. And heavy.

In a good way though.

I'm just a little sad to think about how much quieter the house will be come September when he goes off to college.

But also excited for him.

Nostalgic for the little boy that used to be.

Nervous for the challenges ahead of him.

But mostly, I'm proud.

So proud that it makes my chest hurt.

Proud of him, of all of he has accomplished, of the way he handles life, of how thoughtful and kind and sweet he is.

It's more than I ever imagined it could be.

Yes, he is my hero.

With or without a cape.

Love you more than you will ever know, Jacob Smith!

Go conquer the world!

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We Are the Sum of Our Choices