For many of us the ending of summer and beginning of fall is hard. Perhaps you’ve just sent your first or your last child off to college or to work. You are still shedding tears. Or you may be well into the empty nest, but you are sad because the ending of summer marks a return to responsibilities and saying goodbye to family reunions.

Our friend Karen remembers the fall when she hit a slump. She thought she was prepared because she’d already sent three kids off and she’d been thinking about the empty nest as her last child, Holly, prepared to go. But it was harder than she thought it would be leaving Holly. They were so close and this was it—a truly empty nest.

After moping around for a few weeks, Karen called up some friends—“The Stones”—they had affectionately dubbed themselves. These were women with whom she’d been friends since they started having babies. Together they had walked through potty training, teen challenges, graduations, and weddings, sharing both joys and heartaches. Now most were into the empty nest season, too. Karen said, “You need to help me thorough this. Don’t let me withdraw. Call me and ask me how I’m doing. Make sure I’m at Bible study and that I’m getting exercise. Help me stay involved. Pray for me to catch a fresh vision for my life.”

The “Stones” stepped in. They understood. They offered comfort and encouragement. But it didn’t end there. Together they began to dream about what God would have each of them do in this new season. They pointed out the gifts they noticed in one another. They pointed out ways they had seen God use each other in the past. And they challenged each other to take a risk and to begin to step out in new areas which often called for a scary leap of faith. These women knew that their years ahead could be significant in making a difference for God’s kingdom. 

It excites me when I hear about the “Stones.” All of us need friends who will challenge us in a similar way. Why not invite several women over for coffee, women with whom you can share your sadness. But then be sure to focus on the great fullness that lies ahead as you begin to discover God’s next plan for each one of you.

Karen and one of the “Stones” enjoy a lighthearted moment in the photo.