In my life, I am moving into unfamiliar territory! My oldest child will be coming home off his two- year LDS mission and going to college in Utah and my daughter will graduate from high school and also head down to Utah. I have had many people comment and joke with me that I could be having two weddings in the next few years! I just laugh and brush that aside because I don’t even want to think about it.
If I could have my way I would keep them around me for a couple more years and just enjoy them. However- I know that is just a dream of mine and that they need to move on in their lives and experience this life.
I appreciated the article “Creating Healthy Ties with In-laws and Extended Families” by James Harper and Susanne Olsen. They said, “Parents give their children two things: roots to grow, and wings to fly!” I love that! It’s just what I needed to hear. My husband and I have given them roots to grow and wings. Now I just need to let them fly and have the faith that the Lord is over all. He will give them the opportunities to flourish and meet new people who will bless their lives.
I am trying to learn that my role is changing from that of main caretaker to support. If and when someone special comes into their lives, I will get to encourage and lift them. The article also stated, “In one study, 80 percent of couples in failed marriages had not gained the approval or support of parents to marry.” When children marry, you walk a fine line as their parent. You want to help them succeed, so you always show love and let them know that you are there for them.
The best scriptural advice given on this subject is found in the book of Genesis 2:24, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife.” The husband/wife relationship is the most important relationship to be in. You will find the most success in that partnership when parents and in-laws are not a part of their covenant marriage, but it is only the husband, wife, and the Lord.
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