written by Natalie Caine, M.A. |  

Did you think you would feel this way?

A mother called me sobbing, “she will never sleep in her room again and I thought I was prepared for her leaving but I’m a wreck.” She went on to share how beautiful her daughter looked and that she loved picking out the dress and location for the wedding with her. She continued to share that it is all over and I am here. She is there. 

Transitions aren’t easy. Hugs goodbye are tearful. Why wouldn’t they be when you love the person who had to grow up and move away, even though you are proud and raised them to be independent and loving.

Building towards a major life event is a roller coaster of joy and sadness filled with unending details. Distractions and celebrations fill your days until you come home and the silence sits in your home. The wedding is over and your little one no longer lives at home or brings friends over for dinner.

Go ahead and cry. Really. Cry whenever and wherever the feelings erupt. I know you feel embarrassed and ridiculous since it was a happy occasion. Love is love. Loss is loss. Now the mystery begins. Who are you now? What do you need? What will your relationship with your new family bring into your life? Are these questions that have kept you up at night? You aren’t alone. Change is inevitable. You just don’t need to isolate or go the road alone.

Rest and enjoy the memories of wedding plans and the beauty of the celebration weekend. There is no rush...