Dear Chistian Mothers one of the herd leaving the field.

Dear fellow mothers we are embarking on a new journey,

I know that sending your Children off to college can be a bittersweet time. On the one hand, you are excited for them to start this new chapter in their life. On the other hand, you may be feeling a sense of grief and loss, as you will no longer be seeing him every day. I know this feeling as well as I am currently experiencing this firsthand. I feel alone and not alone in this all at the same time.

I want to assure you that these feelings are normal. It is okay to feel sad, scared, or even angry. But it is also important to remember that this is a natural part of the process. My son is growing up, and he needs to spread his wings and fly.

I know that you want the best for your child as well, and you want to ensure they are safe and happy. But you also need to trust that they are capable of taking care of themselves. My son has learned a lot from The Buffalo and me over the years, and he will use those lessons to guide him through this new chapter in his life. We are excited for this adventure taking him to move into the dorm, seeing him navigate living with his roommate all the stories he chose to share and I hope there are plenty.

I want to encourage you to take some time for yourself during this transition and breath. Allow yourself to understand it is a deep loss of your child's daily presence, but also celebrate his new chapter. Spend time with friends and family, do things that you enjoy, and take care of your own needs, and don't forget the family that left behind as well they are also experiencing the same loss.

I know that this is a difficult time, but I believe that you will get through it. You are a strong and capable woman, and you have raised a wonderful child. I am confident that they will do great things in college and beyond.

Here are some Bible verses that may be helpful during this time of transition:

• Psalm 23:4 "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

• Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

• Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

I know these verses may not take away all of your pain, but I hope they will give you comfort and strength during this time and I know the Lord with you as well.

Here are a few tips I've found that I think will help as well and I plan on using them daily.

• I know how hard this is for you, but I also know that you are doing the right thing by letting your son go. He is ready for this next chapter in his life, and you will be here to support him every step of the way."

• "It is normal to feel a sense of grief when your child leaves home for college. But remember that this is a natural part of the parenting journey. You will always be your child's mother, and your love for each other will only grow stronger with time."

• "I encourage you to take some time for yourself to grieve the loss of your son's physical presence in your home. But also remember to celebrate all of the amazing things that he has accomplished. He is an amazing young man, and you should be so proud of him."

• "I know that you are feeling anxious about your son's future. But trust in God's plan for him. He will be with your son every step of the way, and he will guide him through the ups and downs of college life."

I hope these words offer comfort and encouragement to all the mothers sending their children off to college. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There are many other mothers who are going through the same thing, and we are all here for each other. Feel free to join the email list and receive more encouragement as We Storm this together.

With love, A fellow Christian mother

The Storm - Lee