I recently watched my kid jump off a diving board for the first time. I thought she’d get out there on the wobbly, bouncy end of that thing and then hesitate — because I’m afraid of heights and it’s exactly what I do, even now. Instead, she hurled herself right off.

Moments like that are one of the true joys of parenting. And today, Samm Davidson is talking about watching her own daughter fly, in situations where she’s never been comfortable herself: “When I was a kid, separation from my mom, especially in a new environment, was always anxiety inducing. So I leaned down to reassure her, offering her a little comfort and further explanation about what was going to happen. But right when I did, she stiffened and kindly nudged me away. Making her way to the edge of her little chair, she waited excitedly for her name to be called. As soon as it was, she skipped off happily, never looking back.” It’s a lovely piece — read it and enjoy.

Kelly Faircloth, Executive Editor