Sunday was the Feast of St. Nicholas — and my youngest son’s 18th birthday.
In his sermon at St. Catherine Catholic Church, Father Tom told of the story of Nicholas, about his immense sorrow at the deaths of his parents and the relief he felt giving away his inheritance through small gifts. His main focus was giving gifts to children. The kindness brought happiness to his broken heart.
Nicholas was also Adam’s chosen saint during confirmation classes. He said he chose St. Nicholas because of the saint’s death on Dec. 6 and because he will always be a kid at heart.
While turning 18 is a serious milestone and St. Nicholas Day is a serious event, it didn’t stop a little fun from happening.
For those who don’t know, Father Tom has a knack for making people feel special. During announcements or in an occasional sermon, he will single out individuals by name, oftentimes to their surprise.
Sunday’s sermon on St. Nicholas ended with Father Tom passing out oranges to the children in attendance. Something golden and from the earth were his reasons behind the choice of gift. He took his time, recognizing the children as they came forward, and being on the alert not to miss anyone.
Adam was making his singing debut with the church choir. He was easily spotted with his new blue flannel shirt as he sat in the front row.
Orange in hand, Father Tom walked toward the choir area explaining that it was Adam’s birthday.
A blush from Adam and the “I-got-you” grin from Father Tom ended with the congregation singing happy birthday.
The exchange of the orange and a large hug brought tears to my eyes. I realized my son would be leaving the nest soon.
I missed capturing the special moment on film. A camera is never far from my fingers but I was caught in the special moment. The reporter in me was put aside for a moment and the mom took over to fully enjoy the moment.
A lover of numbers, Adam quickly pointed out his special day was meant to be extra special. December is the 12th month and his birthday is on the sixth day. Together the numbers equal 18.
No matter what the numbers add up to be, I have two non-negotiable requirements for each of my children. The first is being confirmed in a faith and the second is to graduate from high school.
The requirements have come quickly and I have only a few more months to become comfortable in the reality that my days as a full-time mom will be coming to a close. Over the next couple of months until high school graduation in May, I will have more teary-eyed moments.
Soon there will be no more extra laundry, no more making of lunches, no more asking millions of times, “Do you have everything you need?” My role will become one of support as my last child spreads his wings and takes flight.
Until then I will savor the moments, this time with camera in hand.