Family has always been important to me. I was the oldest of two children growing up in my parent's home in northern California. I was somewhat adventuresome and enjoyed spending my summers with my grandparents and my aunts and uncles. I loved the great outdoors of northern California with it's pine covered mountains and pristine lakes, but there was something about the big city that lured me during those summer visits. I didn't think twice about leaving home during those summers; it was an adventure. I eventually left home upon graduation to live with my aunt and uncle in the big city. Later I moved nearly 2,000 miles away to attend Bible college in Iowa.
Most children never realize the emotional turmoil their parents suffer when "leaving the nest." I didn't. I knew what I felt as a young girl leaving home, excitement and adventure overshadowed by a few painful moments as I waved goodbye to my parents. I never fully comprehended their loss, until now.
Recently I was sharing these thoughts with my own mom and dad. Mom reminded me of those summers long ago when I would leave home to spend my break with extended family. She told me how she grieved those summers and then later when I left for college, she said, "It was the saddest time of my life".
Life has now come full circle. "Leaving the nest" is bittersweet. I recognize the spirit of adventure has been passed down to my son and I would never want to pull him back to the safety of the nest. I have taught him everything that I know to prepare him for this adventure and he is ready to take flight. For this I give God the glory! Yes, I'm sad to see him go, I cannot deny the feelings, but mostly . . . I'm PROUD.
