Redditor's Mother Insists On Sharing Graduation Stage As Recognition Of Her Sacrifices, Despite Son's Belief That She Made None

"At the risk of sounding ungrateful, I feel like that’s just what a parent’s supposed to do?"

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• August 7, 2023

Graduation is a significant milestone in one's life, representing the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It is a moment that fills us with a sense of accomplishment and pride.

For many, walking at graduation with a family member by their side adds an extra layer of meaning to the occasion, symbolizing gratitude and recognition for the support and sacrifices made throughout the educational journey.

Sharing the graduation experience with a family member who never had the opportunity to walk at their graduation can be a deeply emotional and poignant experience. It allows both the graduate and their family members to cherish the moment together, bridging generational gaps and fostering a sense of pride in one's heritage and the pursuit of knowledge.

However, while this tradition holds profound significance for some, it might not be the case for everyone. Everyone’s journey is unique, and not everyone may view walking at graduation with a family member as an essential part of the experience. S

ome graduates may feel that their academic achievements are a personal accomplishment and might prefer to walk alone or with peers who have shared the same academic journey. In such cases, the decision to walk with a family member should not be seen as a requirement but rather as a personal choice.

Graduation is a celebration of individual growth and success, and it should be approached in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to the graduate. OP, a 17-year-old high school graduate, attended his graduation ceremony.

His friend wanted his mom to walk with him because she couldn't graduate herself due to immigration and family responsibilities. OP's mom expressed a similar desire, but he felt unsure about it as she had already graduated.

He politely declined, causing tension between them.

OP is graduating from high school and his mom wants recognition

However, he feels that all she did was normal for a parent

Parents should let their kids have their own moment and show pride in their accomplishments

It's awkward when people, like OP's mum, expect something in return for their gifts or favors

OP should set boundaries with Mom, saying "no" is okay.

OP's mom's trying to make his moment about her, which is selfish

This is OP time; he should be cautious for future important moments.

OP's mom is being self-centered, pouting because OP's accomplishment wasn't about her

On this special day, a parent shouldn't try to take the spotlight from their child

OP's mum shouldn't be upset if he prefers to walk alone

OP may suggest to his mom to pursue another degree if she desires to participate in a commencement ceremony.

It's OP's graduation day, not his parents

Understandably, parents may want to share their child's graduation experience, especially if they had significant obstacles to overcome in their own lives. It can be a touching moment of pride and recognition for both parent and child.

However, in the case of OP's situation, where his mother had already achieved her educational milestones, it's reasonable for him to feel hesitant about her request to walk with him. His mother should recognize and appreciate the achievements and successes OP has attained under her guidance.

His mom undoubtedly played a crucial role in supporting him, but being a parent and caring for one's child is a fundamental responsibility, not an extraordinary sacrifice.

Damjan