The Weeks have been marked with lasts, but now our grown-up children begin a new set of

firsts.

We help them pack their bags with clothes and boxes filled with books, but you see what

we, their parents, carry in our hearts, anticipation, longing, love, regret, anxiety, nostalgia,

and resolve.

We are a mix of excited, terrified, and closed-eyed hope.

As we watch our children look for a fresh start, remind us to make our home in you.

As we send our freshmen off into the world, make our feet steady to stay behind, sure, confident,

rooted at peace.

As we pray for our growing-up children to find good friends, may you bring prayerful friends

to our own side, to remind us we're not alone.

If insecurity, fear, or disappointment knock on our newly quiet household door, may we

turn to you and be still with our questions rather than turn away toward the activity of

a busy life.

If we receive calls from our far-away students, though there may be tears and heartbreak on

the other line, may we not set out to fix, rather may we sink deeper into you.

We've wisdom into the fibers of our soul, bearing the fruit of confidence, clarity, contentment,

and a light heart.

May we have the patience to believe even when the report sound grim.

May we not be quick to judge?

Rather may we be patient and curious.

May we remember what our children need more than answers is to know they're not alone.

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