is attending your child's school holiday concert and seeing him eagerly peeking in the door. You can still picture him standing there five years ago and sobbing. Now look at him. Comparing your child to other kids is never good, but comparing your child to his own track record can be one of the most enthralling things in this world. You know how far he has come. And it is making your heart do flip-flops.
is sitting with a group of parents who are just as excited and proud as you are of their kids. There is real comfort in being among people who totally get it, in real life and in cyberspace, too.
is the special smile your child gives you, only you.
is watching your child sing a word, raise his hands, do a dance step. Every purposeful movement is its own marvel, because you know just how much effort went into it.
is being surprised by an accomplishment you've never seen before, like a tune plunked out on a keyboard.
is seeing how proud your child is of himself. You are always there to be his cheerleader, but it's all sorts of awesome to see him believe in his abilities.
is relishing a child's sweetness and cuteness, as any parent does—all the worries, stress and responsibilities temporarily forgotten.
is crying tears of happiness for a kid who keeps amazing you every single day.
