“How do we feel about her going?” is a common question. Well, it
is a pull between being thrilled for this opportunity for her and wanting to hold on and keep her close. My mother’s heart is aching; yet, there is nothing I want more for Sammy than to serve the Lord fully. (Wherever He may want her to go)
I think it is normal to have the conflicting feelings. I do wonder though if we as a culture have started to think it is our right to have our children live near us. Sure we spread out across the country, but several visits a year are a must.
How about those missionary stories or even in the Wild West, when children left and families never saw them again. Did those parents love their children less than I do? I don’t think so; they just didn’t think it was there place to hold onto their children. They knew they were raising their children to be doers and that very well might mean having them leave.
Thankfully we live in an age where we can communicate even over several thousands of miles. We will be able to Skype with Sammy and she should be back home for Christmas. When I realize how blessed I am, it is easier to send her off with our blessing.