My mom and dad are in their early eighties and are fortunate to live very active lives. Their children, five of us, range in ages from 45 and up. I always wonder what would feel like to see my daughter, now almost 14 years old as an adult with kids and even grandchildren.
This past weekend my eldest brother was part of a global event called the DGR (Distinguished Gentleman's Ride). Participants worldwide ride the streets of their city celebrating various causes that are meaningful to the riders. My parents were excited to know their son would ride by an intersection not far from their house. Out they went on a sunny winter day, wearing sweaters and leaving their neck scarves behind because it was a bit warm out. They left the house as they often do but this time to see their son ride by. So many riders participate so my brother reassured them he would wave as he passed by. So there they were, standing on the intersection, along with so many other bystanders, waiting with excitement as the riders approached. My dad with his phone in hand attempting to take a snapshot of my brother complained about the sun rays ruining the shot as they reflected off the phone’s glass causing a glare. My mom, smiling with excitement saying "there he is", my brother waiving at them as he had promised rode by. The moment faded quickly as hundreds of other bikers rode away, the noise of all the motor bikes faded slowly. My parents walked back home, mom sporting an even bigger smile and dad still fussing with his phone trying to figure out why he missed the shot.
As kids our parents have sat down in countless of theaters, school rooms, stood up at parades and sport games. All to see us shine doing what we love. As parents we fuss with the camera, we get there early for the best spot, we always feel proud. We did it then, we do it now, no matter our kid's age, they will always feel like our little ones. And when our kids are small we reassure them we will wave at them so they know we are there for them, so they can spot us among a sea of other parents and relatives. And all those times we stood with excitement help build strong children that one day will wave at their parents, finding them in a crowd full of people to reassure them they have someone looking out for them.
Photo by: FB Moteras Peru
