“A child enters your home and for the next twenty years makes so much noise you can hardly stand it. The child departs, leaving the house so silent you think you are going mad.”
– John Andrew Holmes
If you’re a parent then it is always in the back of your mind that one day your child will leave the nest. At one point, the child you loved unconditionally, cared for implicitly will one day spread their wings and venture off into the world. It’s bittersweet to say the least, but a huge part of life. So, what is to be expected when this happens? What changes are you facing, what voids do you begin to feel?
Essentially, it is completely natural for you to feel some level of sadness and loss; however, it is not the end of the world, rather, it is a new chapter that is opening up for all parties involved. Moments such as these should really be viewed as positive change that will allow everyone involved to grow. The teen that is leaving is about to embark on new experiences, lessons and in some cases, geographical areas, while the parents are looking at new opened doors that have presented themselves. For instance, now you have a new level of freedom. Now is the time to embrace your life and dive into whatever new business or career that you’ve been dreaming about. Take up a new hobby, perhaps spend time with a loved one that you were limited in spending time with in the past. Acting on this can really help with the loss felt, if any.
Additionally, it is always important to remember that the relationship shared with your children will always exist, whether near or far. Keeping this in mind, touch base with them regularly and continue the relationship on all levels. It is a learning process and we all go through it. These feelings don’t just occur as a result of our children leaving, but with our loved ones, our friends and sometimes even our pets. It is important to identify the positive and negative in all situations, the sooner you come to terms with this the better off your mindset and energy will be in handling it.
Tell me your story. How did you deal with people leaving? I welcome your comments and words of wisdom on the matter.
