X O…Sending Love
My mom has signed “XO” along with her name for as long as I can remember. She followed the example of her mother, my grandmother, whose letters and cards always closed with the familiar “XO” message.
Because of their example, I do too. X and O were two of the first letters my sons could identify in the alphabet. They quickly learned the significance of those two little letters…mommy love.
Years ago, when the first day of school rolled around, X and O were an imperative part in helping my boys feel confident. With XO and a small heart written in watercolor marker on the palm of the hand, they we’re covered. When anxiety crept in, a quick glance at the message was a reminder of my love and the fact that we would be reunited soon.
When they learned to read, I would add a note in a snack or lunch bag and sign off with the customary XO. The messages were to both encourage and relieve anxiety. Now, with teenagers, we’ve moved to Xs and Os in text messages, cyber love.
Use a message of love to reassure your kids as they head off to school. A reminder of being loved can calm the worst case of the jitters.
© 2012 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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