Well, it’s that time of year again when many Moms and Dads send their children off to school. Some parents might welcome the peace, quiet and stability of the school year. But, most will admit that first day can be rough. I remember the tears shed when it was time for each of my kids to go to their first day of kindergarten. The tears showed up again as I dropped off the same kids as college freshmen. Life was moving fast and I wanted it to stop! Just for a moment, so I could savor and enjoy their company. Even now my youngest will be going back for his sophomore year of college. I’m sure there will be a tear shed on the three hour drive back home. I remember him in kindergarten, in what seems like a day ago. College graduation will come again too soon and he will be off to live his own life where ever it takes him, like his sister and brother before him. I now find myself going back to kindergarten with my daughter, but this time with her as the teacher! I find myself excited for her and I enjoy helping her shop for classroom supplies.
I wish I could remember how many older women would offer the same advice for me as a young mom” Enjoy them now, because they grow up so fast” It was all the time! I respected their advice, but somehow, I didn’t want to accept that fact. I wanted to hold my kids forever and let life slow down. How about you? Do you ever feel like life is just too much change and growth? Do you ever just want it to slow down? It would be nice, but deep down we know we must accept the fact that it doesn’t slow down. Change is hard. We discussed before over coming fear and trusting God for strength to try new things. But how do we respond when we are forced to change? What then? Life is full of change and much of it is not from our own choosing. Kids grow up, move away, jobs change, friendships change, and people leave us. We cannot avoid life changes. They are scary, but just like facing fears, we can handle and accept life changes with God’s grace. It’s important to look forward in times of change and look for the good in them. Every time one of my kids- I mean adults- leaves to further their education or enter the workforce, I remind myself they are going to fulfill what God has called them to do. Every time there is change of people or places I must leave, I trust God has a good plan and I will meet new people and make new friends. Romans 8:28 is often quoted, but is a very good reminder during times of change: “And we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purposes” When we are shaken by change, we must turn to the one who never changes, God. God does not change and neither does His Word, the Bible. We can find comfort from reading the Bible and direction for us to go. Psalm 119: 105 says ” Your word is a lamp for my feat, a light on my path” (NIV) So, when you face change, the best place is to go to God’s Word. Change isn’t easy, but you can do it! Allow yourself to grieve what has been lost, and take comfort from God as He works everything in a wonderful new direction for our good. God Bless- Nancy
Moving Forward 