Empty-Nest Again

Little did I know that I’d be going through the empty nest syndrome all over again. I managed to pull through it when my son went off to college and then again when my daughter moved into her own apartment 12 miles from home about 6 years ago. It’s always hardest when your youngest leaves. No longer is your baby there for dinner or on the weekends to go shopping or to just hang out. My daughter became an adult, ready to spread her wings and be on her own.

The transition was difficult at first, as it is for most parents, who are close with their kids, but I always knew she was a phone call away and only just a half hour by car. Over the years, she became an independent, responsible, young woman, who proved herself to be a wise, talented, innovative individual.

During the past six years, she worked, saved her money and started getting restless, not feeling fulfilled in her current job options. She is an aspiring actress, who felt that Florida wasn’t giving her all that she needed to fully pursue her career. So one day, she decided to move to California, 3000 miles away to give herself a chance to ‘make it or break it’ in the business. Needless to say, her decision was bittersweet for the family.

I think there’s a huge lesson for all parents who experience the sadness, loss and emptiness that is associated with children leaving home. Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. It is a blessing that your child is healthy and independent enough to want to be their own, even though, they, too, are leaving the security of their home.
2. It is a joy to see your child follow his/her dreams, by taking risks that you may never have done at that age.
3. It is a gift that your lessons and teachings are being followed and that they feel strong enough and capable enough to trust their inner voice.
4. It is a privilege to watch your offspring, spring forth and become all they can be without your help.

I’d love my daughter to be close to home again so I can visit with her more often, but I also love her strength and fortitude. She may meet someone, and settle down in California and I may have a beautiful place to visit three times a year, or she may come back to Florida one day. Whatever the future holds, this growth is a normal part of life and I am sure that only good will come from her new adventure and from my new adjustment with the empty nest syndrome again.