My 2nd son's first day of college

Through all the years that my two sons were growing up, I often told them the story of my African roommate and how one day I would go to Africa.

I cherish a moment in the eventful day when my husband and I dropped our second son off at Grinnell College in Iowa for his freshman year of college. We all unpacked the van and then wandered the campus a bit. When it was time to go we hugged each other farewell.

As I tearfully crossed the street to get in the van, Seth said, "Hey Mom!" I looked back. He said, "Have a good time in Africa!"

That was about 15 years ago, but I will always remember it as his acknowledgment of my dream and his blessing of it. I think he was also saying, "I'm fine; you can get on with your other life goals."