They’ve Left the Nest. Now What?

Do you remember the day you sent your college freshman off to kindergarten?

This fall, you are at a transition point just like that moment. Saying good-bye may be sad. But it can also be good. Here are six suggestions for emptying the nest in a healthy manner:

• Don’t hide. Face the reality of this change yourself.
• Open hands. Remember to let go; we do our kids (and ourselves) a big favor.
• Think new. Expect change in your young adult.
• Add depth. Work to establish an adult-to-adult relationship.
• Reach out. Commit to initiating communication.
• Hit your knees. Pray a lot!

The Rev. Mark Abbott is senior pastor at
First Free Methodist Church (adjacent to SPU’s campus).

View Tips Archives