This past weekend, I thought my 12 year-old son might move in with his dad in the fall. Then last night he told me he changed his mind. Even though the whole time line lasted for only 24 hours, it was one of the most emotionally draining times of my life. I went to bed exhausted last night and woke up only slightly less than exhausted this morning.

I’ve been pondering what my takeaways are. Here’s what I’ve come up with so far.

7 Things I Learned When My Son (almost) Moved Away

1. Praising God is the best response in any situation. Especially when I don’t “feel” like it. When I’m able to take my focus off myself and my situation, and instead focus on the nature of God, I make room for His Presence in a powerful way. (Thank you Jon, for affirming this in me.)
2. My community is made up of people near and far. Some I’ve met in person and “done life” with for decades. Others I’ve never met or met only briefly but their influence in my life is significant.
3. When we get it right, people in community pray for one another. I was so encouraged by the number of people who prayed for us, and am equally challenged to pray more earnestly for others.
4. My heart’s desire is for God to bring about His plans and purposes for our children. I want our kids to become the men and women God intends for them to be. And now it’s written plainly, to remind me when I’m feeling short-sighted.
5. The non-custodial parent misses out on a lot. The mere thought of not being present for every blasted cross country meet, or band concert brought me to tears. Maybe God is softening my heart towards my children’s father in this regard. I’m still processing this one a bit…
6. Time passes too quickly. Most parents don’t face children leaving home until after high school. And even though my boy will be with us for the next school year, who’s to say how long that will last. There’s always the possibility that he will one day want to live with his dad.
7. I need to cherish the moments I have. Of course, this could be said of all of us, in all our relationships. The reality, however, hit me this weekend. How do I make the most of the time with my children, when they’re here?

Much to ponder.

And you?
How do you make the most of the time you have with your children? And do you see any other insights I may have missed? How have you been encouraged by community?