Finding balance

I love how he grasps my fingers with all his little might when he's tired and settling down to sleep. He pulls my hand to his face and doesn't let go.
My heart swells. It is indescribable, this feeling of being wanted and needed. I drink it up, breathe it in. It fills me up.
I know I shouldn't indulge him with too much coddling. There is a balance that I need to find, where he can know he's secure in me, that he is wanted and needed and loved, and where I know he's developing self-confidence, trust, and independence.

It is difficult for me. I caress his sweet little face until he drifts off to sleep. I slowly pry my fingers away.