Mentoring a child to help fill void
I lost my dear, sweet mother to lung cancer in 2008, and my son ventured off to college in another state. Then in spring of this year, I lost a special friend, not to death, but to her no longer wanting the friendship.
As a result, I avoided going home to an empty nest. I clamored to fill all my off-hours with other friends. I hated the mornings especially because for the last several decades my mom and I shared a phone call at 8:30 with our cup of coffee in hand, and we spoke of our day before us.
To add discomfort and worry to the mix, I am a Realtor and anyone who reads the paper or listens to the radio knows the real estate market is struggling. Thankfully, my business was solid last year and I am very grateful. I do love my career, and I feel this enjoyment of my job and my wonderful, kind and caring colleagues I see daily have been my salvation from depression.
I agonized about my future with my mom no longer here, my son's independence and growing into a man and needing me less and less, and the loss of a favorite friend.
Happily and excitedly, the answer came to me. I would become a volunteer with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization. I was told in January that I would be matched up with a younger girl or boy that needs nurturing, and I am a nurturer. The wait seems endless since I placed the call last October. I know in my heart that the match will be right and we will become lifelong friends.
I feel a purpose again beyond my daily regiment of career and home. I know my sweet mama is applauding my decision in heaven, and I look forward to the next chapter of my life.
- Holly Henning
Elm Grove
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