We fell into typical patterns of dealing with hurts. I would set up some kind of unrealistic expectation - usually involving Steve being able to read my mind and take away all my feelings of sadness, insecurity or insignificance. Invariably Steve would fail. He should have been praised for the times he miraculously figured all this out. But instead, I would take offense. I would suffer as a martyr in silence. You know, the loud kind of silence that is hard to not notice.

I want you to know "letting go" is anything but accidental, and we are definitely not dropping our children on their heads! There is a lot of work to be done to prepare your heart and your child's for the time they will leave your care.

A "No, thank you" is rejection at some level. It's a common experience. And it hurts.

You know the story. Joseph’s brothers sell him into slavery. He ends up in Egypt only to endure more harsh treatment and false...