Grief & Growth: As My Child Spreads Wings

Embracing Grief With Love: A Bittersweet Journey as My Daughter Spreads Her Wings: This past weekend was a whirlwind of emotions. A powerful women’s circle and drumming session I participated in the night before truly unearthed a wave of buried feelings. While I unintentionally let some of those emotions overflow onto my family (sorry everyone!), a powerful realisation emerged amidst the tears. I am incredibly fortunate. My life is blessed with a loving husband, amazing kids, and a rock-solid family unit.

The real floodgates opened later that night though when my daughter asked if I wanted to watch our favourite film “Pitch Perfect” and this time a new wave of emotions crashed over me. The usual sentimental ending scene (flashlight song)  triggered a fresh pang of bitter sweetness. These cherished movie nights, these little family traditions we hold dear, might not be the same for a while as in just 10 short weeks, my daughter embarks on a life-changing adventure – living with a family in Switzerland and caring for children

Letting Go With Pride: Celebrating Her Growth

Looking back, it feels like just yesterday she was a tiny 11-year-old finishing primary school. I remember her trying on her secondary school uniform which seemed too big for her small frame. Now, at the cusp of womanhood, she’s ready for this incredible leap.

Perhaps this bittersweet feeling is, in fact, a touch of grief. It dawns on me that this stage in our lives is drawing to a close. It’s about letting go of the little girl who needed me as her center of gravity. This transition involves allowing her the freedom to spread her wings and explore the world, trusting that the foundation of love and support we’ve built will give her the confidence to soar.

Seed of Independence: From “Never Leaving Home” to Spreading Her Wings

I remember how she swore at age 7 she’d never leave home? But guess what? She went on that year six residential trip and she loved every minute of it. Each year, she’s grown bolder, braver, venturing further and further out into the world. School trips, sleepovers with friends, volunteering opportunities – each step instilled in her a sense of independence and self-reliance. Looking back, I believe we’ve raised a strong, independent daughter. We nurtured her curiosity, encouraged her to explore her passions, and equipped her with the tools to be her own person, ready to forge her own path.

Sure, I miss the younger years, the snuggles and bedtime stories. But the excitement for the future adventures we’ll share as adults washes away those worries. This is a time to celebrate her growth and independence, and embrace the exciting new chapter unfolding for our family. As she embarks on this incredible journey, I know our bond will only strengthen, evolving from a mother-daughter relationship to a supportive, lasting friendship.

What is Grief: A Necessary Part of Letting Go

What is Grief, often associated with loss of a loved one, can also manifest when we experience significant changes in our lives. It’s a normal human response, a complex cocktail of emotions that can include sadness, anxiety, anger, and even guilt. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve, and the process itself unfolds in stages. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance are commonly cited, but the journey is unique for everyone.

Why We Grieve: The Power of Love and Change

Although grief, though painful, is a natural and necessary part of letting go. It allows us to acknowledge the change, express our emotions, and eventually begin to rebuild our lives. By processing grief, we honour the past, the experiences, and the relationships that are shifting. This, in turn, helps us move towards acceptance and a renewed sense of purpose in this new chapter.

I loved the article Overcoming Grief as Our Children Age: The Value of Acceptance and How to Be More Present