As she dragged her suitcase bravely behind her, she never looked back. We waited to see if she would, but she kept walking. Tears flow as my seventeen-year-old daughter said goodbye to her sister. The hug and intense emotions that followed were heart wrenching. These two had shared everything their entire life. Nighttime routine consisted of celebrating highs and comforting the lows.

Children leave the nest, one by one, they fly away. Prepared to soar.

It was exactly what I hope for, a young woman ready to launch and begin a new adventure. But the hole left behind created a bit of a devastating wake. Not forever, but in that moment it stung. Two sisters torn apart living in two different countries.

You can’t love deeply and not feel the pain during the separation. It is coming of age. It is growing up. For those left behind, we pray for new friends and new experiences. This isn’t an end, but a beautiful beginning. A chance for both of their world to expand. They will always be close.

Choosing to prioritize the sibling relationship paid off. I love their bond. As I comfort the two still at home, we look for ways to create a new tight unit. As slowly as our family expanded, it is now deflating. Once a family of eight, we are half our size, with four still under one roof. Our big, busy family is slowing done. More time to stop and enjoy the simple things. There is joy in the journey.

Seasons come and go. Sisters are God’s gift. Family is one of life’s greatest blessing.

Spend the years wisely. Raise children who connect on a deep level. Create moments that help develop strong bonds. Pray, serve, and explore together. When the last one leaves and the house is quiet, know that they will always have each other to lean on.

 A deep family connection doesn’t happen by accident. Make space. Arrange the schedule that includes time for family.

So, when your child boards an airplane and heads towards her own journey, you can cheer her on. While strategically initiating space for those still on the home front to feel loved, excited, and ready for whatever is next, filled with anticipation, not just sorrow. As you grieve the dwindling of family, it causes you to be even more aware of the precious time you still have with those still at home. Don’t waste it.

Get intentional.