Well folks, gather ’round. I’m about to take you on a journey that starts with a question—and trust me, the destination is just as important as the path we take together. How often do you talk to your adult kids? Now, if you’re anything like me, a spry 60-year-old mom and proud patriot from the good ol’ U.S. of A., you might have mixed feelings about the frequency. But hold your horses; this one’s worth sticking around for.

First, let’s journey back to a time when phone calls actually required a landline connection and the patience of a saint. Oh, how technology has changed! Dare I say, not everything is better with all these gizmos. But that’s another sermon for another Sunday. We’re here to chat about chatting with our grown-up progeny.

Let’s be honest. How often did we get to talk to our parents when we were young adults? If you’re anything like I was, well, put it mildly, it was mostly during holidays or occasional crises. Back then, I thought I was too busy experiencing the world—making my way, finding my path. Who had time to chit-chat with the folks? But here’s the kicker, my friends: hindsight is 20/20, and I wish I had more ol’ heart-to-hearts with my parents. You see, family bonds aren’t just built-in; they need nurturing, just like that garden of petunias you fuss over every spring.

So, do you remember when your little angels first flew the nest? Boy, was it gut-wrenching! Felt like my heart was split right down the middle. But they had to go, didn’t they? The nest gets pretty cramped after a while. Now, with those baby birds turned into full-grown eagles, soaring high in their newfound independence, it’s more crucial than ever to stay connected. I could quote some research, but let’s face it—I’d rather you hear it from good ol’ Mary.

When my son and daughter moved out, I fell into the classic empty-nester blues. My goodness, the stillness of the house was enough to make me talk to the cat more than usual. He didn’t mind, of course, but it wasn’t quite the same as chatting with my kids. Gradually, I learned that communication isn’t just about frequency; it’s about the quality of those conversations. Instead of hounding them day and night, a well-timed catch-up can mean the world.

As a fervent believer in faith, I’m reminded of the importance of familial bonds in The Good Book. Many teachings emphasize the role of family, the sacredness of keeping close, and yes, that includes regular check-ins. The Lord gave us families as our first ministries, after all. So what’s holding us back? Technology has made it so easy—a quick text, a brief call, or heaven forbid, actually using video chat! (I still struggle to find the right angle on those things, but I digress.)

Consider this the next time you’re pondering whether to call your child. Your voice is a lifeline. It carries wisdom, solace, humor, and yes—sometimes unsolicited advice. I’ve given my fair share. Believe it or not, they do absorb it like those sponges I used for scrubbing dishes until I discovered the dishwasher. They may roll their eyes, but they’re soaking it all in, trust me.

Now, I’m not suggesting you become overbearing, flooding their phones with calls and messages. Balance is key. Just like when you’re making a good beef stew, you don’t need the whole pantry—just the right ingredients, seasoned well, and simmered with love. What I am suggesting is a regular cadence—a rhythm, if you will, like that gospel choir I used to sing in back in my youth. A steady beat that binds the music together.

A little prayer helps too. I always bid The Almighty to watch over them and nudge them to ring dear old Mom (or Dad). It’s those small but heartfelt conversations that fortify the walls of kinship. And don’t forget the power of laughter. Share some funny experiences or memories from back in the day. Lord knows, I’ve got plenty of those!

If we’re planning for the future, we need to ensure our legacies aren’t just built on monetary inheritances but on treasured memories, shared wisdom, and constant support. Our conversations are the mortar that holds these bricks together. In the twilight years, I assure you, it’s those small exchanges that’ll matter the most. Just like that old rocking chair on the porch gets comfier with age, our relationships deepen and strengthen through consistent, loving communication.

So, my dear friends, next time that phone rings and it’s your adult child calling, drop what you’re doing and pick it up. Or be the first to make the call. While I don’t want you to obsessively check your phone, I do want you to remember that these moments are precious. Almost like a good Sunday sermon; get it while it’s hot and fresh.

In the end, you’ll find that these conversations—whether brief or lengthy—serve as poignant reminders of the love that bonds us. And who knows, you might even squeeze out a ‘thank you’ or two, maybe even a laugh that brightens your day.

So there you have it, wrapped up like a hearty, warm apple pie straight from Grandma’s oven. Keep those lines of communication open, and cherish each call. You’ll find the blessing in each and every conversation.

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