Teddy Bears

The mother drove tentatively onto the campus of her daughter’s new school. They spent the summer discussing this new chapter in her life, and there was much excitement about it, until it was time to leave their house that morning. Clinching, or maybe strangling, her teddy bear for security the child looked out at her new school. As the car pulled to the curb, her grip became even stronger, but her mother lovingly got her to release the bear and buckle it in her seat for the ride home. With one last look and kiss, the door closed and the daughter walked down the path to her new school.

It was the hardest departure she had known in her young life, but it was to be repeated with equal intensity and greater importance throughout the rest of her life. Like her bear long ago, we are given the gift of companionship in all shapes and sizes. The softness and warmth of a trusted friend can comfort us on the darkest of days. Somehow, they make the adventures more adventurous, the playtime more playful, and the nights less dark.

But, eventually, a time comes when we need to give them one last squeeze, shut the door, and head down a new path toward another adventure. We want to look back, maybe even run back, but they are buckled in, on their way to their new adventure.

Whether a beloved friend, job, colleague, minister, mentor, spouse or child, the door eventually closes. Remembering the softness and comfort, the adventures and play, we hold tight to the memories, and give thanks.