First, it was so important to be there for all the babies needs and the firsts on everything.
The reality is that raising well nurtured, confident and secure children can lead to independent adults who have busy and full lives. It is exactly what I hoped for and yet I miss them needing me. Their co workers and friends see them more us their parents now They own cars, have drivers licenses, one owns a home, one is engaged, they all have jobs, and two are in college as well.
I feel lost and lonely now. What is my purpose?
Yes I cook, buy food, take care of the dogs, house plants, do home maintaining tasks but the offspring don’t need me anymore. It means a mix of good luck happened mixed with things working out how they should with the goal of raising independent adult off spring.
I didn’t know it would be this hard not to be needed anymore yet before they didn’t have their licenses I was busy driving them places and there were the driving lessons.
No one tends to share how big of adjustment the feeling of having successful independent off spring who can drive themselves places, have lives, jobs, college, etc.
It is a huge challenge.
-480x270.jpeg)
Thank you for sharing your feelings with all of us, I am sure that is extremely difficult. Change is hard, but though you are stepping out of your role as the primary caretaker, know your children will always need their mom. You are an integral part of their lives. It is okay to be proud of their independence, while also still mourning the loss of their childhood. Your children are growing up and taking all the lessons and wisdom they learned from you out into the world. Remember to give yourself some grace, change isn’t easy.
Thank you for listening and taking the time to respond!
I really appreciate your words of support and understanding!