Wikipedia describes the empty nest syndrome as “a feeling of grief and loneliness parents may feel when their children leave home for the first time, such as to live on their own or to attend a college or university.” Just as a bird prepares a nest out of bits of twigs, grass, and other sturdy ingredients to serve as a home and refuge for its babies, so we moms have built a nest through the years for ourselves and our families. When that nest begins to empty, how do we fill the vacuum?
A Challenge to You, Mother, for Your Children (With Application for All of Us)
Challenge to Mother: You are not the only one who influences your children. You are not the only one who can make a difference in their lives. But if you are a Christ follower, with His help, you can influence your children–and others–in a way that “sticks.” In little ways and big ways, known maybe only to God, your loving investments do make a difference.
Mother or Grandmother: Is There a Difference?
Mother or grandmother: It really doesn’t matter what age or stage a mother is at. Once you’re a mother, you’re a mother forever. God places within each mom the need to nurture her little ones–always guiding, always loving, always giving and prodding them in the right direction with gentle reminders: “Be careful,” “Dress warm,” “Eat healthy.”
Motherhood–Pleasure or Pain?
Every mom visualizes the moment when her perfect baby will emerge from the womb—the joy of her heart and life. But the first sounds she hears are not the sweet cooing of a contented infant, but the sharp wails of a screaming stranger. Years that follow may bring a love-hate tug of war between “I love you always,” and a “Who is this, child, anyway?” Is there a true joy of motherhood?