Welcome to my first-ever blog post coming on the heels of our family Christmas celebration and the prelude to a New Year (1/1/11). I have often said when the kids move out it will be the greatest day of our life (I am still passionately in love with their beautiful mother) and the worst day of my life (I am still passionately in love with them too).
They moved out several years ago, and it was not the greatest day of my life. It was not the worst day of my life either. However, when we all gather together with four adult children, two daughter’s-in-law, and six grandchildren (with one more expected to arrive any day now) and they all leave again; now that comes close to one of those worst days.
When I take time to reflect over the previous days of joy, friendship, love, and celebration, I am reminded of the incredible blessings on our family. It reminds me of counsel I have given to others, but need to swallow a dose for myself. Better to have these great reasons (people) who leave a little ache, than to have a detached self-protective response at their departure.
As I contemplate further, I thank God for all His blessings through our relationships. Joy and nostalgia flood my empty heart with sincere appreciation for our love for Him and each other. His love has been shed abroad in our hearts through the Holy Spirit and my heart is saturated again. However, my heart leaks more than it used to. My family thinks the frequency with which my eyes water and my emotions are expressed is symptomatic of male menopause. I know it is indicative of an “empty nest with a full heart!”
Better to have these great reasons (people) who leave a little ache, than to have a detached self-protective response at their departure.- LOVE THAT! Thanks for sharing!
Aw… Good job Sir! 🙂
Great first post Dad! Also, nice looking blog 🙂
I enjoyed the article…you did a great job. Where’s the next one?
that’s exactly what I’m wondering too Lollie 🙂