Growth

What is the measurement of growth? To some it is a category that can be measured. Take for instance, a scientist. He has to have something to measure growth against, whether it be length, mass, reaction, etc, he/she must have something to "show" for results or indicate there are no measurable results. I wish life were that simple. Wouldn't it be a lot easier to know how we are supposed to grow? Growth can be rewarding yet painful. Anything worth doing can be painful, but no one prepares you for the pain when in the midst of it. Not sure I have EVER been ready for the changes and growth of life when they occur. There are sooooo many stages of growth in life. There's going from being a child to teenager. Then from being considered a "kid" to college. Then marriage, children, and work. So many challenges during the longest stage of life (when you're married and raising children) that growth is inevitable. The most recent stage of "growth" for me has been the most difficult, yet necessary. Taking Morgan to school and seeing her struggle with those issues that arise from being in college. Homesickness, looking for a job, school, friends, balancing it all, and getting sick for the first time while away from home. When our kids are little we control every aspect of their lives from what they wear to what they eat and who they play with; as young adults they have to learn the consequences of all the decisions they make. It is hard watching her trying to navigate those issues without wanting to jump in and make them for her. This is as much a growth process for her as it is for me. I think the toughest thing as a parent is learning when to just sit back and be "available" rather than check in all the time. Lord, give me strength to learn how to be a good parent at this stage of Morgan's life!!!