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The abandoned bedroom: Dan Bracken
This article, titled "The abandoned bedroom," is a reflective piece by guest columnist Dan Bracken, an instructor at Monarch School, dedicated to parents whose children are heading off to college. It explores the emotional journey of a parent witnessing their child's transition from childhood to young adulthood, marked by the imminent departure for college.
Bracken begins by describing his son's bedroom, a "happy mess" that evolved over 17 years. Initially filled with blocks and stuffed animals, it later accumulated trains, cars, Legos, and eventually books, electronics, and stray socks. This chronological layering of toys and personal items serves as a metaphor for the son's growth and development, from infancy to adolescence. The author admits to not knowing where to begin excavating this "domestic geological site," highlighting the challenge of letting go of the past and the physical remnants of his son's childhood.
The core theme of the article revolves around the emotional milestone of a child leaving home for college. Bracken notes that the "where" of the son's departure is not the difficult part; rather, it is the "when"—the realization of time passing and the impending change—that is truly heartbreaking. He recounts several poignant memories and observations that underscore this sentiment.
The article shares a series of vignettes illustrating key moments in his son's life, showing his development and personality. One memory is of recent vacation runs, where the son, now faster, no longer needs his father to let him win, symbolizing his growing independence and physical prowess. Another memory is from freshman orientation, where the son's success in Model United Nations and his commendations, including one from "North Macedonia" praising his performance, showcase his intellectual capabilities and diplomatic skills, alongside a humble confidence that allows others to shine. The selection of a tuition payment plan is mentioned, followed by a humorous anecdote from seventh grade where the son, despite being issued detention, crumpled it up, displaying a spirited and perhaps stubborn streak.
Further memories include a perfect game pitched during summer 2017, where a called third strike led to an opposing team dad questioning the umpire's impartiality, yet the son's accuracy was rewarded with a game ball. The article touches upon the son discovering his college roommates and recalling a "guys trip" to Washington, D.C., in third grade, where his father taught him about the Capitol building. The selection of a meal plan is followed by a memory of biking with his son, who, as "R2-D2," would offer directions, leading to a moment where the father biked three blocks without realizing his son had hopped off the trailer bike to press a walk button. The purchase of a new laptop precedes a memory of a day at Huntington Beach before kindergarten, where the father held his son close in the relentless waves.
The narrative culminates with the "Last-Minute-Items Shopping Trip" and a "Last Meal" of chicken nuggets, mac n' cheese, and chocolate milk, emphasizing the finality of these moments. Bracken also recalls his son's birth on June 6, 2006, and his initial thought of ordering a lobby poster for "The Omen" remake for the future dorm room. During the mother's recovery, the father had a first "man-to-man" talk with his newborn, promising him legs for racing, arms for pitching, and a brain to help people. The article concludes with the son saying goodbye to his bedroom, walking towards the car, but then returning to give a long hug to the elderly cat, symbolizing a final tender farewell to his childhood home and an enduring connection to his family and past.
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