In hiding, what decision does Tom make? How does Ma feel about that?

Tom decides to follow in Casy's footsteps and go off on his own to find himself. He promises to return when the trouble blows over. Ma is calm and doesn't cry when saying goodbye to Tom, and she gives him a bit of money. She is, however, devastated that the family will once again be apart. Ma is a survivor, and she moves on in order to keep the rest of her family moving.