When my 16-year-old son went for his learner’s permit in April, I wasn’t too worried. It would be awhile before he’d be driving on his own. I convinced myself that I’d rather have him driving than a passenger in a vehicle being driven by one of his friends.
The other night my wife was explaining to me that Michael’s seemingly endless stint in driving school was coming to an end and that one of the instructors had told her he expected he would take the test the first week of November.
“I’m getting really nervous about this,” I told her. “I was thinking about it a lot today and I just can’t imagine letting him drive off on his own.”
I went on to explain that I was feeling a little guilty about my apprehension because a friend from the gym has had his second child going through the same process and seems to take it all in stride. A few days after his daughter got her license I ran into him and asked if she had driven on her own.
“Oh yeah,” he replied. “She’s gone solo every day since she passed the test."
He told me he was happy because now that both his children were licensed drivers his days as a taxi service were officially over.
I shook my head, amazed at how calm he was and also feeling a little guilty because suddenly I don’t mind driving Michael around and want to suggest to him that I provide taxi service a little longer.
I keep having the same vision over and over. Michael is driving down our short street by himself and then pulls on Pond Hill Road. I lose sight of him a few seconds later. The next few hours are pure agony as we wait for him to return. I’m assuming the second time he drives away will be a little easier. I wonder if my parents still worry about me when I drive?
Let me know what you think.
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2 comments:
I can relate to your fears/apprehension. I, too, have a son which will be taking his driving test at the end of November. Although this will be the second time I've been through this, it really doesn't get easier. I remember watching my daughter drive off for the first time on her own over three years ago and I practically cried . . .I know that sounds stupid, but she was my first one . .I knew she was a good driver though, after all, I taught her . .lol What made it easier for me was that for the longest time I always had my kids text me when they got somewhere and when they were leaving. this practice was started with them in middle school when they first got cell phones. It gave me peace of mind.
To this day, my 20 year daughter, still texts me when she gets places and when she is coming home.
Although my sons have a way to go before driving, I empathize with your concerns. I know that when their time comes, I will be just as nervous--if not more nervous---than you.
I think the idea of having them text or call when they arrive and leave is a great way to help ease your mind.
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