Empty Nests Support Group

I am no expert, just a mom with my only son gone off to college this year, but what I'm starting to understand is that all of this emotion is perfectly normal. It goes on as long as you need it to go on. I think its a gradual process, it takes time. I've been experiencing the exact same thing. I think I'm doing well, for days I'll be living a normal empty nest existance, then all of a sudden......BAM.....sobbing. I just miss him so much. I've decided my issue is that everyone tells me to just "let go". Those words just send me over the edge. Those Walmart commericals for College dorm shopping sent me into tears. I've decided I REFUSE to let go, I don't think any mother should have to "let go" of there children no matter how old they are. I do think you have to give them independence and the opportunity to grow into there own individual but to let go......not for me. It might be only words but those words have power over me. I have a new slogan now......Don't let go....do let grow. Isn't that cheesie, I could never work for Hallmark. Anyway, my only advice is based on my experience and that is be patient with yourself..time is what we need. Good luck to all of us. Hugs, marge

Very good marge! I like the don't let go do let grow! I have been on vacation last week from work, stayed home to be with my son the days before he moved onto campus and a couple days after and I know it was a good idea. I am still crying and have to go back to work tomorrow... better take lots of tissues and hope people ignore me. The nights to myself I used to want are so empty now. I'd give anything to have my son back home.

I know in my heart I will never let go, but I guess I try to "act" like I'm letting go.....good word play...."let grow". I like that too.

Well said, Marge. I'm in total agreement.

Danny, my son left for college a few weeks ago as well and I'm still having a very difficult time adjusting. Like Marge, some days I think I have it under control and than...BAM! It's tears and depression.

We are mothers and a mother's love runs very deep. This is normal and we have earned the right to grieve until we can adjust.

Miki

Thanks to all of you for your kind words and encouragement. I guess in time it will get easier. Those 17 years went way too fast! I guess it reinforces how much we have to appreciate what we have today.

Ive heard let go. can,t ever do it. Im crying off and on already,s don,t want to. im a mother for life. but NO that does not sound cheeie at all. I like it. I can handel that. but not the let go. ever.