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Empty nest syndrome is there such a thing? There sure is. Empty nest syndrome is a general feeling of loneliness that parents or guardians may feel when one or more of their children leave home. Empty nest syndrome is more common in women then men.
Suffering from empty nest syndrome can leave you feeling like your life has ended. You might cry excessively and you may not want to go to work or out with your friends. If you are feeling seriously depressed you may want to talk with someone.
When your children move out it can be a very painful time in your life or it can be a very exciting time in your life. It is at this time that you are given the time to rediscover who you are. The time in your day is increased because you aren’t worried about the parenting aspect of your adult life.
“This can be a very exciting time of life,” says Father Dick Mirsberger, pastor of St. Rita Catholic Church in West Allis, Wis. “For some, this is the first time in their lives that they’re discovering how to reach out to others besides their children, and they find new and fulfilling ways to serve the Church.”
The relationship between the husband and wife is always primary. The couple should sit down together and assess their gifts as individuals and as a tandem. Then evaluate how much time and what kind of time you’re able to commit to new activities. Think about where you feel comfortable serving and in what capacities you excel.
When you are assessing your gifts there are three things to remember.
The first is meaningfulness, which incorporates the gifts, talents and abilities held by the couple individually and as a unit. These can be tapped and expanded to enrich present days and plan future doings.
The second is intimacy, which includes healthy vulnerability and inspiration.
The third is virtue, which emphasizes the attributes that make one a stronger, holier disciple of Christ.
Enjoy the accomplishments of your children and be confident that you’ve raised them as best as you could and take advantage of this exciting time.”
Of course, Father Mirsberger advises,
“We have to remember that children are the fruit of the marriage, not the root of the marriage.”
Empty Nest, Full Life @Catholic.net
http://www.catholic.net/index.php?option=dedestaca&id=498&grupo=Lifestyle&canal=Relationships
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