by Sally | submitted on July 29, 2008
My son is leaving in August for his sophomore year in college. I thought it would be easier this time with the letting go, but I feel sad.
We have had wonderful talks and BBQ’s, as well as, having his friends back in the house. The silence is nearing. The not seeing him until Thanksgiving and not having the sounds of him around the house and just seeing his face are bringing mists of tears for me.
I hope I will feel the sadness for just a brief time. I work and have great friends. We play bridge and some of us are talking about starting something new, we just don’t know what the something is. We are energetic, but that doesn’t really help when the issue is, “what do I want to major in, in this next chapter of my life.” Are we kids again learning how to play and reach for something that matters?” Researching at the library and wanting a book to fall off the shelf and land in our hopeful laps for new purpose.
I just had no idea this empty nest would be ongoing. How is this for being innocent? Parenting wasn’t all of me, but added meaning. I do like my own time and less problem solving issues that spontaneously arise with children, but I just don’t like not hearing his voice and if he is happy or not. Plus, I am uncomfortable with the void. I want to fill it, but keep coming up with, “no I don’t want to do that.”
Are you having these feelings too? How are you dealing with all of it? I am so grateful we have each other on this site.
Thanks for being here,
Sally
Natalie Caine, M.A. natalie@lifeintransition.org
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