The speaker expresses a deep emotional conflict about parenting, revealing a desire to protect her child from the harsh realities of life. She struggles with the idea of his innocence and the pain she feels at the thought of him being hurt. Her wish to keep him as a child forever showcases the intensity of her love and fear.

However, she recognizes the inherent challenges of being a parent, which include the necessity of allowing children to grow and face the world. This admission highlights the bittersweet nature of parenthood, where the instinct to shield can clash with the responsibility to nurture independence and maturity.