When Words Fail...

 I was reclining in the dentist chair for a routine cleaning recently when she asked the question. I had seen this particular hygienist in the past. We both really enjoy one another's company, as two fellow moms sending our children off to college this year. We've both had opportunities to encourage each other, to laugh at all the things that delight us about our kids' unique journeys. 

But this day was different, the kids had just graduated from high school. We are both on the cusp of sending them off into the world, whatever may come. Have we taught them all the necessary skills? Have we prayed enough? Will they make it okay on their own?

The past several weeks have also brought more life advice than I can ever possibly sort through. Advice well-meant and sometimes needed, yet often conflicting and sometimes anxiety-provoking or off-the-mark. 

But that day in the dentist chair, a fellow mom shared with me something far more profound. We had laughed at so many things - the weird college degrees we didn't even know existed, the funny things our kids do as they try out their wings, and then, the tone suddenly shifted. Her voice calmed, slightly quieting, and she leaned in just a little to say, "how are you feeling about everything right now?" Her posture was slightly enveloping me just by the nature of her job.

I thought of everything and nothing, all at once, with no idea how to begin to speak. It was a question not waiting with all the answers or born of expectation, but from a fellow mom going through the very same thing, sharing the journey briefly with another mom in the same trenches with her. There were no right or wrong answers, only space to breathe.

All I could do is let forth one small tear, say that I wasn't sure, and it was simply received. 

Peace be with you. 

Photo Credit: Redd Angelo, stocksnap.io