I read somewhere that a parents job is never over it simply evolves.. that beating heart of a parent yearns and longs for their child no matter how old or independent they get. When they are happy we are joyous and when they are sad or ill we ask ourselves what did we do wrong. Our children are an extension to ourselves.

As the children grow older though and more independent mothers especially tend to feel a little lost and unessential. Similar to when men retire we tend to feel like a big part of us goes missing. I say this as I’m struggling to find myself again. Struggling to find my purpose and meaning in life after raising my three terrific kids.

What is my passion? What is it that will spur me to get up in the morning and make me feel adequate again? A mothers job never ends and the constant worry is still there however now there’s no baby crying to be held all through the night and day, no toddler learning to walk and talk, and no child that looks at you like you’re their super hero. In my life right now there’s three teenagers working hard to establish their own identities separate from their parents.

I know my writings have been centered a lot on parenting lately but parenting and watching my children grow has been a big part of my life for the past eighteen years that I struggle to re-discover my identity now that my children have grown. I never understood it when other parents would tell me to enjoy every moment with my babies as they grow too fast until now… they surely do and so does the love and care that comes with it.

Till I find my identity and purpose again separate from my children I continue to read passionately and write thoughtfully and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. I know I will find myself again even if it takes time.

Do you know who you are you and what drives you to get up in the morning?