Milestones

Milestones were originally used in the 16th century to tell weary travelers how far they had traveled, and how far it was to the next destination. Because roads were easily washed away, they also let the traveler know they were headed in the right direction. So when we talk about milestones, we are saying that we recognize that a distance has been traveled, a goal has been met, and there is more to come.

Today was a milestone. Zack graduated from college. He has definitely traveled a great distance. From infancy to adulthood, officially. No longer dependent upon his parents for food, finances, or much else for that matter, except maybe occasionally desiring some Cheeseburger Macaroni Hamburger Helper.

We marked the event in a typical Jones fashion. Randomly different family members showed up. (I mean that in a good way) We ate way too much. We laughed. We argued. We took photos (none of which included Zack in a cap and gown because he turned it in before he found us awaiting him outside with our cameras, oh well). We played games. We napped. Some of us.

And now, he is an adult. Don't ask him what he's going to do with the rest of his life. He doesn't know. But how many of us knew at 23? How many of us know now?

All that to say, I am the mother of a college graduate. Thank God.