I wish there was a name for that feeling. You know, that feeling you don't want to admit to or talk about. It is the feeling deep in your gut - kinda ouchy but kinda tickley too. It is when you see your daughter with her baby. And, she is so loving, patient, tender and attentive, with beyond-the-best-expectations mommy skills. And you are so proud! So very proud you could burst. Yet, at that same moment you realize just as that baby needs her so much, your daughter doesn't need you now in the same way. She is so capable and responsible. And of course you are proud beyond measure. But still, there is that other melancholy feeling of not ever being needed as a mommy of a little girl - ever again.
Yeah, there should be a name for that.
You are needed in so many different ways! Your relationship with your grandchildren can't be matched by anyone! It's special and unique. And I guarantee you influence your daughter still more than you realize. At 40, I still think WWMD.
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