Webster defines the noun transition as “the process or period of changing from one state to another.” The verb is “to undergo a process or period of transition.”

When my first born was just 24 hours old my husband walked into the hospital room and found me crying. He asked why I was upset and I said “I’m thinking about when Matthew goes off to college.” Maybe it was hormones or the drugs given for my c-section pain but deep in my heart I knew the loss of him leaving home would be an unwelcome transition.

Being a mother is the most rewarding and fulfilling job I have ever had. Raising my two sons brought unexpected joy. It was a huge blessing that I never had to use daycare. We spent a lot of time together building wonderful memories. Still, 18 years did not feel like enough time.

Transition is a natural part of life and I knew each day with my boys was slipping like sand through my fingers. The day they would go off to college was fast approaching. Matthew was the first to leave.

We hugged, said our goodbyes and “I love you.” He walked with us to the car, turned, and walked away. And as we sat there looking at his back, I cried my heart out. Our firstborn child was launched, and I felt like my insides were being ripped out.

Two years later, we had a repeat. Once again, after goodbyes, “We love you,” and hugs, another son walked us to the car. Watching him as he turned and walked away, those same deep heart cries rose up in me.

One last time, a few years later, goodbyes and “I love you” were said, and hugs were given. We went to the car and watched as our college graduate son turned and walked away into his new life out of state into his new career. And yes, we sat there looking at his back and I cried my heart out.

Two years later our youngest did the same. He graduated and has moved out of state with his career. More tears.

Not that I would never see our sons again, of course. But when our kids left home, I was keenly aware that my life would dramatically change. For years I had anticipated this day and often thought I couldn’t survive the emotion of it all, but I did. It’s been several years now since those first goodbyes. I still cry when they leave after a weekend or holiday visit. Maybe I always will.

God keeps reminding me to focus on my blessings. I have a good relationship with each of my sons. They text on a regular basis and call me to share good news. I know that they love me and they know I love them. I have a hard working husband who loves me and is faithful. God has blessed me with wonderful friends. The Lord’s lovingkindness is new every morning.

Today I am so grateful to God for his sustaining grace, and for the surprising sweet joys he’s giving me each day. It feels like Todd and I spend more time together. We often eat our meals in the den on tv trays because it seems easier than sitting at a large table with empty chairs.

Todd and I are more dependent on each other with the boys gone. Our house feels too large and we rarely go upstairs. We enjoy sitting on our back porch and talking about this life that God has given us.

Life is full of transitions. A new job, a move, the passing of a parent, spouse, family member, friend or retirement to name a few. I think God wants us to embrace each earthly transition. Each change can draw us closer to God, until one day we make that final transition to heaven. On that day we will be forever.