Re- feathering the empty nest- facing the anxiety with grace

Intrigued, I looked outside right in time to see the nest of baby birds were preparing to fly solo. The mama bird stood nearby instructing them,  keeping her gaze steady.

She is there to protect and guide, but I bet she doesn’t waste time fretting about letting go.

Not like me ,  I sat envious at her ability to just do what was natural. Teach and release.

My girls flew away this week also. As they prepared to leave the nest, I too instructed, cautious words meant to protect.

They were going to switch planes for the first time alone in an unfamiliar airport.

Last year they weren’t ready for this kind of responsibility; this year it didn’t faze them.

Just like the birds we’ve been watching, my babies have grown up quickly.

Their legs might be wobbly as they enter young adulthood, but their wings are strong and capable.

Philippians 4:6-7  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 

 

 

What are the symptoms of empty nest syndrome?

Anxiety. Excitement. All the feels. Questions.

How do we let go of our kids? It’s easier for them. This mama struggled, conflicted.

It wasn’t sadness that they were leaving, I was overjoyed they were able to take this trip.

It wasn’t fear of danger, I felt peace.

It was the realization that their being “ready”  for life seems to have come so quickly.

While my mama’s heart knew it is a process of letting go, I was distinctly aware of their complete focus on the trip. Confident young ladies, optimistic that things would go just as planned.

Their hearts were devoted to the next thing, not giving care to what they were leaving behind.

Is this what it is like for God? Watching His children forge ahead, aware of the security they leave as they step away from in His embrace?

Yet, He…we… let go.

 

Embracing God’s example

Reassured, we understand the importance of letting the child experience. Watching with fascination as they journey, prepared with open arms for their return.

Always, unconditionally. (read where I am today after a few years out… here and here)

His example is a perfect one for this mama.

Letting go helps us to to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. It allows others to be responsible for themselves and for us to take our hands off situations that do not belong to us. This frees us from unnecessary stress- —Melody Beattie

I love watching them fly, delight in their soaring experiences, and relish them returning to the nest. Safe, for another night under the shelter of my wings.

While I rest under His.

 

Need more Empty Nester resources?

• Empty Nest, Full Life: Discovering God’s Best for Your Next

• Finding Joy in the Empty Nest: Discover Purpose and Passion in the Next Phase of Life

• Release My Grip: Hope for a Parent’s Heart as Kids Leave the Nest and Learn to Fly
• Empty Besting: Break Through 12 Empty Nest Myths So That You Can Adopt New Truths and Live Your Best Life 
• Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children: Trusting God with the Ones You Love
• My Nest Isn’t Empty, It Just Has More Closet Space: The Amazing Adventures of an Ordinary Woman
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