Every time when some one pointed to the monotonous lifestyle with out kids around, I was little interested in their talks.
But out of the blue the thunder struck. Yes! Suddenly my kids grew old. One got married and the other got a job in a far away place and my husband and I were left to be on our own. Empty nest syndrome, as it is aptly expressed, is really a troubling experiance.
We had a purpose so far for our lives. Children filled our lives with responsibilities and associated us with the society. Now that they are on their own, are we a vestigial organ in their world? What do we do now? Big house, all facility filled rooms, their furniture, and their paraphernalia............every thing stare on us.
Then we sat down to note some dos and don’ts and started following them to some extent. That really helped us to sail through, why actually to enjoy life! I think it may have useful tips for others who sail in the same boat.
- “your time is yours only” Get the point straight to your head that
- Travel around with no worries about schooldays, lunch and tests...etc.
- : scout for temples unknown, less crowded and go for them.
- Keep notes on bills payable LIC premiums, credit card details and other to do lists in order.
- Revive your hobbies. , writing, handicrafts anything to make you happy and useful.
- Catch up with long lost friend’s .net them! I mean, internet them! E mail is really a great boon to us. If they are in your home town visit them (only occasionally, if you please!). There may be very old couple who just drag on with none around them to talk to. Bring meaning to their lives by talking to them over phone and visiting them periodically.
- Do not get glued to the TV sets. But don’t get cut of either. Keep a list of good programs spiced with some serials. (Not more than two. I warn you!)
- Some occasional movies will pep up your life with eating out and if you are in metros ‘Mall’ practice! I mean go and stroll the ‘Shopping malls’. Seeing lively youngsters and young moms and dads pulling demanding kids may bring back happy memories.
- Remember you are not old! You are just left to be yourself earlier. more to do. Enjoy this God sent respite.
- Keep in touch with the children. Do not expect them to make the first move. A letter or E mail is better then phone calls. Keep it in mind they do cherish you. They are just more concentrating on their careers or family life.
- Do not grudge or show your ‘No body cares’ look on your face.
A cheerful mom and dad proud of their children, who miss their kids, yet put a pleasant face are the ones the flew away free birds want.
So don’t look at the empty nest with a sigh. But make it a nest, full of love and cheer to which your kids would like to visit often.
Take pleasure in the holy days until another cycle of grand ma grand pa days start.
