A couple of months ago I had an experience that made me realize that our kids are grown up.
I happened to check my phone in between classes, one afternoon, to see that I had a couple of voicemails, and a number of texts. As I am rarely that popular, I checked them further, only to realize that hubby was in hospital (but okay).
As I only had one class left, I opted to stay at work, and just leave a few minutes early, in order to avoid the crowded parking lot upon school dismissal.
Once in my vehicle, I made a quick call to one daughter, who informed me that she and her siblings had all been in contact with each other. She was headed to hang out with her brother, while her sister had gone straight to the hospital to be with their dad.
I arrived at the hospital to see that hubby was being well cared for by hospital staff, with his daughter at his side (and even a few church friends).
Once we got home, the kids had arranged to get hubby’s car home.
As I lay my head on my pillow that night I was a thankful woman. Thankful that hubby was sleeping beside me and thankful that our kids have moved beyond childhood and into independence.
This experience reminded me that they choose how to practise their independence as well as their sense of interdependence within our family care of, and for, each other. But this is not because of exceptional parenting … this is because they have chosen to act in such a way. For they are responsible for their actions … that is part of what growing up is all about.
I was also thankful that, though our parenting has not been flawless, they love each other and that leaves me thankful beyond words.
“In your love for your brothers (and sisters),
show tender affection toward one another.”
Romans 12:10
itsawonderfilledlife 
Oh yes and this concept goes double for fathers! It is so hard to imagine that our sons (now in their 40’s) are sometimes smarter and definitely more successful than their Dad. Thanks for the reminder!