Another test: in a few weeks, we are going skiing. Over the time: it’s Valentine’s Day, it’s Court Warming for our two Freshmen, Audrey has a friend that is having birthday where “everyone will be there.” She doesn’t want to go on the trip.
Personally, I don’t care what she does. If she feels she’s missing out and wants to stay and it’ll save us on expense—let her do what she wants, and if she feels guilty after, maybe she’ll appreciate family moments more.
It’s a new age too. High school, there’s a lot going on. Growing up, we stopped going on family ski trips at that age for that same reason. As a family—us, my parents, sister and her family—we’ve been making an effort and point to enjoy these times because we all understand: there’s a window to enjoy them. Maybe our window’s closing.
It’s not something to be sad about, or to be in denial. It happens. Life goes one way. Windows open. Windows close, and that era in life is gone until a generational transition and the chance returns, each generation moved to new role and place.
I never really had “FOMO.” I can’t empathize with it (though I understand why some would feel so). I’ve always been more private and never wanted in a crowd or clique (and is reason I remain mostly a loner).
I believe the timing is a test. I’m tired—already past when I would normally be asleep.
I could take the news and be bitter or resentful of it, crankiness of “past my bedtime” making nastier than I should be.
Or I could listen—listen for what it is, a girl growing up expressing herself snd working through her own thoughts and feelings with someone she trusts enough to be vulnerable with.
Deep breath. Exhale. I listen. We all need someone who will listen, who will not attack nor demean as we allow our incomplete, but honest, emotions to express.
I listen, the ear I know that I should be.
I pass the test.