How do I even sum up another homeschool graduate? Two years ago when I graduated my firstborn it was such an emotional time. I wrote about it several times here on the blog as we finished the homeschool journey and sent her off to college. I wrote about our journey often that summer and then I even wrote a book about our journey which has received so many encouraging reviews.
Read the book:
So many have asked me if this time around is easier. And quite frankly it is not. In some ways, it is even harder. Don’t get me wrong though. Hard doesn’t mean it isn’t good. Hard doesn’t mean it isn’t where we are supposed to be. And hard doesn’t mean it isn’t right.
Launching another child this time has the added benefit of a perspective change as well. In a sense, I know what I am getting into. In a sense though, that’s a bit of what makes it harder. I know this time how much things are going to change.
Naively, two years ago when we sent my daughter to college, I thought things would stay the same. Sure, she’d be at college, but things would still stay the same. Yet, they certainly haven’t. And while they have changed for good, for very good even, they still have changed. So I have a keen awareness this time around to really relish it in all because it will never be this way again. No matter what, the family dynamics will change. I have two grown adult children now. And even though their lives are going in wonderful directions and they are thriving, the mommy heart in me now truly knows that this summer will be the last one of its kind.
And at the same time, life changes for good. So very good. We have so many things to look forward to. The days of diapers and naps and toys are over. And we have moved toward a whole new chapter of life. A very beautiful one at that!
My advice to the moms that are moving into new chapters– walk through it, feel all the feels, don’t try to avoid the natural pain and tears that will be shed. Feel it all. Allow yourself to grieve and rejoice at the same time. And then, look forward and walk forward, knowing God walks with you and in you.
And remember, just because it is hard doesn’t mean it isn’t the right thing to do. When it is hard, remember, God is growing your children and you! And sometimes, that hurts.
Life is an always moving, forward journey. There are new and exciting things on the horizon. We will never “arrive” until the Lord calls us home. So enjoy today, look to tomorrow, and keep your eyes firmly fixed on Him the whole time!
