Surviving the Transition

What a summer we have had. After moving across the Atlantic, we embraced our three children, one teen and two adults with open arms. Essentially we went from continuous communication with and worry about our three children from afar to living with two of them and the third just down the road. Did I mention there was a shift in employment as well.

During the past month, I have beat myself up with the feeling of overwhelm. Then I look back at this massive transition we have all been through and sigh. We are all mourning our previous lives as well as rejoicing at our rekindled relationships. The emotional response is necessary. It is important for all of us to identify what we are feeling, process these emotions, and share with each other the joys and struggles. It would be very unfair for me to expect everyone, including myself, to simply pick up the pieces and carry on. 

Why is it so important to let children express their emotions? When children and adults have the opportunity to express what they are feeling, the individual is learning that they can deal with their emotions in a healthy manner. Opportunities to explore the emotion allow for growth with both self-regulation and problem-solving. Sounds simple, right? Not always. Sounds important? Exactly.

Me not expressing my emotions in a health manner: “Stop bothering me! I need to unpack boxes and get dinner started.” 

OR

Healthy me: “I am feeling a bit overwhelmed right now with the unpacking and daily chores.” When I respond in this manner, my amazing family immediately jumps in with, “What can I do to help?” or they understand my overwhelm and give me space. Either way, we have connected on some level and the feelings of belonging have increased. 

Is it perfect all of the time, NO. Are we surviving the struggles, YES! Are we growing closer, DEFINITELY!