(no subject)
The husband and I joined our lives almost 32 years ago - and are now once again just two. We are older, a bit softer, hopefully wiser. Our relationship is seasoned, rich with the history of our shared lives.
I remember the feeling of "ending" many times over the years of family raising.
The last child was born and she was the sweet ending to our family.
The last nursing happened with each child without realizing that it was the last time.
The crib was disassembled and propped up against the wall to be stored or given away.
Along with all of the beginnings - there are always the endings.
A trio of decades are lived out with these children and we are among those who are especially fortunate. These children grow up to be blessings and have become friends.
The sons moved out so long ago - college and/or military service removed them from the home quickly and finally. Years ago they moved on and our family structure changed and we became a family of four. With sons now independent, there was still parenting to do with the daughters.
Last year the youngest daughter left for a new location, a new job and a new marriage, and six days ago - the elder daughter did the same.
Changes have been happening over the past thirty years - year by year. This final emptying of the nest brings not only an ending, but also a beginning.
The arrows are all shot - and the archer and I might yet have some things to learn about each other.
Don't you see that children are God's best gift?
the fruit of the womb his generous legacy?
Like a warrior's fistful of arrows
are the children of a vigorous youth.
Oh, how blessed are you parents,
with your quivers full of children!
Psalm 127: 4-5 The Msg
I remember the feeling of "ending" many times over the years of family raising.
The last child was born and she was the sweet ending to our family.
The last nursing happened with each child without realizing that it was the last time.
The crib was disassembled and propped up against the wall to be stored or given away.
Along with all of the beginnings - there are always the endings.
A trio of decades are lived out with these children and we are among those who are especially fortunate. These children grow up to be blessings and have become friends.
The sons moved out so long ago - college and/or military service removed them from the home quickly and finally. Years ago they moved on and our family structure changed and we became a family of four. With sons now independent, there was still parenting to do with the daughters.
Last year the youngest daughter left for a new location, a new job and a new marriage, and six days ago - the elder daughter did the same.
Changes have been happening over the past thirty years - year by year. This final emptying of the nest brings not only an ending, but also a beginning.
The arrows are all shot - and the archer and I might yet have some things to learn about each other.
Don't you see that children are God's best gift?
the fruit of the womb his generous legacy?
Like a warrior's fistful of arrows
are the children of a vigorous youth.
Oh, how blessed are you parents,
with your quivers full of children!
Psalm 127: 4-5 The Msg