Joyful Goodbye

As I write this, my house is unusually quiet (and clean!) All three kids are away at sleepaway camp. It honestly wasn’t intentional for them to be gone at the same time. Next year it will be:)

My boys are at a Christian camp together, and my daughter ventured off to a rigorous three week musical theatre camp on her own. Except…

During our long drive there she realized, through the powers of social media, that one of her favorite people from our church was heading to the same camp! Their rooms are directly across the hall from one another.

God continually shows up with lovely surprises and I’m thankful for the help.

I visited with my sweet friend and her family in the camp lobby as our daughters headed off to grab a bite to eat. And after only a few words, her eyes filled with tears.

She explained that her son would leave for college before her daughter returned from camp.

So this was a big day. A day of goodbyes. A day that would forever mark a change in their family. That final hug between siblings who consistently live under the same roof.

As she stood right there on the threshold between two phases of her life, I was in awe of her ability to look clearly in both directions. She grieved what was being left behind—so many years building character, relationships, memories, and sandcastles. But she also felt grateful for what had been and for what was yet to come.

For every tear we shed in grief, there is a beautiful moment of joy to celebrate.

Each chapter in our lives will eventually end and we’ll have to turn the page. Remembering that our sadness springs from love and connection can help us replace some of our grief with gratitude.

As Dr. Seuss said, “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” Realistically, we will probably do a little of both. But finding our smile through the tears will help us glide confidently across that threshold. Forever cherishing the blessings behind us. Eager to greet the adventures ahead.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 6:16-18