Empty Nest Again

By Amy Sherman, LMHC

As time goes on many boomers are noticing that it gets easier and easier as you adjust to your children not being around. Whether they are off to school, living in their own apartment or married with their own family, the emptiness, thankfully, diminishes and you are able to get on with your life. However, for some, it seems that we relive the empty nest syndrome over and over again because circumstances change. Little did I know that I'd be going through it one more time, even though my daughter has been on her own for the past six years. This time she decided to relocate to California to fully pursue her career in acting.

So one day, she packed her things and moved 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 again. However, here's what I've learned this time:

1. It is a blessing that your child is healthy and independent enough to want to be ontheir own, even though, they, too, are leaving the security of their home and family.

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.

About the Author: Amy Sherman, LMHC is the author of Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life

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