One of the Best Parts of Releasing Your Kids

Sitting here after a tiring day of running here and there, I’m thinking what is worth writing about today? What was the best part of my day? That’s easy—talking to all three of the girls in the same day and that happened today.

Yesterday I talked about the grief of our kids leaving and we’re left to deal with the next phase of our lives, which we might not be too happy about.

But today—today I experienced one of the perks of releasing our kids. Talking with the kids, heart-to-heart talking over the miles—that is sweet. It’s almost as good as having them home.

Part of what helps with the grieving process is looking forward to the good in the next season. Talking to your adult kids about the stuff of real life is one of the perks. It might not happen while they are in college so hold on. It might take a few years, but keep pursuing relationship with them in a way that speaks to them, in a way they can hear.* Chances are better than not that your parent/adult child relationship will sprout in that fertile ground and grow into something beautiful over the years.

I’m not making promises or guarantees. No one can promise that. But being the parent your child needs definitely tips the scales in your favor.

So, Mama, send a card or care package the first week your kiddo is back at school. Hide corny notes of love and encouragement in their stuff so they find them as they unpack. (Our kids never wanted us to stay long enough to help them unpack so no worry they would find them before we left!) Send notes and small gift cards throughout the year. And above all, take their calls when they call.

I know you will do your best. And it will be enough. God will make sure of that.

 

*For more ideas on building relationship with your teen/young adult child check out Love No Matter What.

 

 

 

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.

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