Don’t Be Afraid to Go Your Own Way. In a twist even Fleetwood Mac couldn’t predict, our eldest’s ‘Go Your Own Way’ chorus involves a detour from the path to University of Kansas, in Lawrence. After he started second-guessing his major-choice in early August, we collectively hit the pause button on the college plan. (Yes, we had already registered for classes and paid tuition. It IS reimbursable!) This decision was so good for him, he and I conformed again last week, it deserves a workout high-five.

Our son’s newfound clarity led him to explore alternative opportunities, each one more exciting to him than the last. We explored various vocational programs, internships, and even the possibility of a gap year filled with meaningful travel and volunteer work. The options seemed endless and far more aligned with his evolving interests and passions at this time. We’ve settled on a couple of cool options for him. He’ll help start a new gym in Dinkytown that uses Power Block weights, do some sales training classes, and I plan on trying to recruit him for some Yellow Parachute work as well. We’ll keep you posted for sure!

As parents, it’s natural to feel anxious about such shifts, especially from a traditional or trusted path for our kids. But seeing the spark (and relief) in his eyes has continued to reassure us that this is the right option for him. It has reminded me of the importance of flexibility and support in nurturing our children’s dreams, even when they diverge from traditional paths.

We celebrated this new direction with a family dinner around the fire pit, where laughter and stories filled the air. Conversations about potential adventures and future plans replaced the previously tense discussions about deadlines and academic pressures. It was a moment of unity and renewed hope for what lies ahead.

No journey is without its bumps; we still find ourselves in spirited debates over the loading and unloading of the dishwasher. Yet, amidst it all, I sense the precious gift of time returning with my firstborn. Similar to many of the young people in his graduating class, our son had lost the chance to hone his critical thinking, planning, and organizational skills during his transition to high school as an online learner during Covid.

I embrace the opportunity to keep him nestled under our wings, practicing these skills a little longer before he takes flight as a Jay Hawk!

With our son’s blessing, I share our tale and warmly invite your inquiries via email. As parents, we must listen to stories that grant our children the freedom to forge their own paths, embracing all the twists and turns that may arise. For it is through this journey that they cultivate the trust and confidence to fulfill their true purpose.