Empty Nest Yes; Empty Nest Syndrome No!
As many of you know, August 12th was my 30th wedding anniversary. And to keep up my week of self-disclosure, we are weeks away from having an empty nest; our younger daughter will be off to college. With two in college and not living at home, our baby birds are growing up and flying on their own.
To be clear, I am differentiating between natural feelings of loss and a “syndrome.” Both of us will feel the loss of not having a child or children around. However, our lives will at the same time, be full as we embark in this new stage of married and family life.
And here’s the secret- get to know each other consistently. Take at least 10 minutes a day to slow down with your partner. Do it even when kids are young; even very young. I know you are busy; but make your relationship a priority. Get professional help if you need some guidance and PAY ATTENTION TO EACH OTHER. Do it when you are busy with so many other things so that when you have an empty nest, and things so down somewhat, you already have a close relationship with your partner and do not have to build it from nothing. That is a dangerous way to go.
So for us- empty nest with its feelings of loss-yes. But “syndrome,”- NO! as I am looking forward to getting even closer to my partner. Life is good!
Here’s to getting the love you want!
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