Mom, are you feeling like the cycle of life has just ended with your son or daughter moving out and moving on? That may sound a bit dramatic, but often sums up the emotions at the moment. A raw, grinding end to life as you knew it. In times like these, perspective can be a lifesaver.
Fast forward four years…
My youngest, Eli, graduated from the University of Hawaii in May, 2017 (above). That same month, construction began on a new elementary school in the field across from our home. We live eight miles south of Jackson, WY — where we’d never have guessed (18 years ago when we built our home) that a school would someday exist. But what a perfect picture of endings and beginnings. They’re all around us.
And to add to the story, this fall I hear kids playing at recess while we plan for Eli and Jessika’s wedding in less than two months. (smile) I remember hearing Sam and Eli laughing and playing during our home school breaks, not that long ago. Someday, I’ll be listening to grandkids. Yes, the cycle of life continues.
Be encouraged! Even in the midst of loss and mourning, make it a habit to look for evidence of new life. To celebrate new growth. To relish in the continuing cycles of joy. There will always be children to love and teenagers to tease and college students to be proud of. If not your own, many others around you who will treasure your love and input.
Make it a habit to look for evidence of new life. #emptynest #empowerednester Click To Tweet
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