Growing Pains

"There is no growth without change; no change without fear or loss; no loss without pain. Every change involves a loss of some kind.  You must let go of old ways in order to experience the new. We fear those losses, even if our old ways were self-defeating, because, like a worn-out pair of shoes, they were at least comfortable and familiar" ~Anonymous

I can vividly remember those achy growing pains as a child, when you could almost feel your body changing. We experience them differently when we get older---like when we are stretched beyond our limits or taken outside of our comfort zones; when we learn new things and adjust our perspectives; when we are faced with an uncomfortable situation and have to face it head on, with no one to cling to or hide behind. But, they still mean the same thing: a time of transition.

And, there is something overwhelming about becoming that protection for our kids...when it is our leg they hide behind for comfort and security. It is such a fragile dance of holding them close and giving them wings to fly.

"My heart is torn just in knowing--you'll someday see the truth from lies. Castles might crumbles, dreams may not come true. But, you are never all alone because I will always...always love you" 

This week we are starting new routines and learning that taking the first step in a new direction is hard---even if it is the right direction. Opting for the easier path may be less effort, but the scenery isn't as vibrant and the view at the top less breathtaking.  And, we'd miss some important lessons---about staying true to who we are and doing what's right even if it is uncomfortable; or lessons about resiliency and adapting to change.

Afterall, change is inevitable. It is growth that is our choice. For all of its discomfort and anxiety, change brings bittersweet exhilaration--an opportunity to turn a new page and start fresh. To stretch our wings and soar even higher. 

It is so painful to pry those little fingers off of my legs or kiss them goodbye amidst the tears.  But, when the growing pains subside, we'll be stronger for it and we'll look back on the beauty of God's intricate plan.