You know what they say: “It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt.”  Here’s my homeschool twist on that saying: “It’s all fun and games until someone graduates.” You’ve had years of doing everything together: learning, playing, figuring things out.Then bam!  It’s over. The “hurt” is the honest, heart wrenching emotions felt as you see your son our daughter succeed into adulthood….without you. Right? Ugh. You have my permission to shed a few tears –  or cry really hard. A lot.

As the homeschooling door closes for good, pain may be unwelcomed, you may try to suppress it, but it’s real.

Of course there is happiness, too. My goodness, your young person has completed twelve years of school and is ready to embark on life as an adult! High fives all around! If college is on the horizon, there’s another reason to celebrate.

But there’s bound to be a struggle within your heart when you accept that your son or daughter is moving on.

If you’ve clicked on this page, I have a feeling that you’re having a bit of a hard time. I want you to know that I understand. It has been ten years since my most recent graduate went off to college and I’m still not really over it. My high schoolers will reach that point all too soon and I’ll experience it all over again. Of course, the goal is to educate and prepare your children for life. Still, when the time comes for a new season, it isn’t easy.

All the years of pouring your heart and soul into your child are part of who you are. I am happy for all that my grown children are doing: their contributions, their vision and their accomplishments. And yet, I still miss the years when all of my children were home and I quietly wish I could live it all over again. Maybe you feel the same.

But you can’t go back, so you must move forward.

How?

• By patiently moving through your emotions

• Resolving regret

• Filling the gaping holes with new, fulfilling undertakings (when you’re ready)

The “think sheet” that I have provided (above) is designed to help you with some of the big feelings. Download it and put it to use in working through your thoughts. I think it might help.

Beyond that, my advice is to dream big. You may not feel up to it today, but sometime in the near future, start to set your sights on something new. Even if your resources are limited and much of your time is consumed with employment or caring for a loved one, still dare to dream. What is your calling, now that your children are grown? What have you always wanted to do? Can you take steps to do that now? Amazon books and Apple podcasts are full of dreamers who have succeeded. Read, listen and be inspired.

You’ve had the experience of daring to homeschool your child and have succeeded! The world needs you and your input. Find ways to share your hard earned character and insight.

In the meantime, keep in touch with your graduate. He or she may be busy living life and figuring things out, but you are still a vital part of who they are becoming. Even though you may not see it or feel it, your presence is a powerful support, and you are irreplaceable.

Now that you’ve realized the great accomplishment of reaching the end of the homeschooling trail, what are your hopes? What are your struggles?

Lost at the End of the Trail Think Sheet  PDF