The Empty Nest Stage: Henry is Going to the University of Virginia
"I don't think I'm going to like it," said Elizabeth yesterday. She was referring to the next stage of her life - the empty nest stage. It is the best of times and the worst of times at home too. We have had children in the house for the last 25 years. But, suddenly, the house may become strangely quiet.
Henry has heard from the colleges to which he applied and made his decision. He might have stayed on with us in Paris and gone to medical school here (where it would be free!). Instead, he's going to the University of Virginia next year.
Meanwhile, after a year in London, our actress daughter, Maria, is headed for Hollywood. We also have an older son in South America...and another daughter in London.
"Jules will be in Boston...Henry will be in Charlottesville. Maria in California," Elizabeth lamented. "And now Edward is talking about going to boarding school. If he goes, I'll be an empty nester sooner than I planned. I don't know if I can stand it.
"Now I think of all those times I just wanted a little peace and quiet...I wished for some time to myself...some time when I didn't have to listen to children...didn't have to find their clothes or help them with their homework. Now, I'll have all the time I want...all the time to myself. I'll come home and there won't be any children waiting to ask me questions...or waiting for me to fix dinner. I'll be all by myself. It sounds dreadfully lonely."
"Don't worry," was our reply. "Edward doesn't really want to leave us. He's just trying out the idea to see how it sounds...and to see how we react to it. If we seem to like the idea, he won't do it."
"Yes, but I don't like the idea. I hate the idea."
"Well, just try not to show it."
Bill Bonner
The Daily Reckoning Australia
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About the Author
Best-selling investment author Bill Bonner is the founder and president of Agora Publishing, one of the world's most successful consumer newsletter companies. Owner of both Fleet Street Publications and MoneyWeek magazine in the UK, he is also author of the free daily e-mail The Daily Reckoning.
Comment by christina on 7 May 2008:
Don't be sad Mr Editor, when one door closes, another one opens. Try to look for a hidden opportunity in the sroblem. You could be a great part time foster parent to a lonely child. You have them for a bit for one or two days a week, to give their parent or parents a break, who may be struggling in some way, personally or financially etc. That way you get to have kids in the house AND you get peace and quiet at the end of the day- there you go- you get the best of both worlds. I reckon you'd be the best mentor ever to a troubled youth. Go on, it'll be fun!