Dear Mom,

One of the most challenging relational dynamics on the planet is the one between mother and daughter. As a daughter matures, she finds autonomy. She becomes her person. This is the normal path of personal growth. A mom living with her healthy autonomy will desire the same for her daughter. Our job as moms is to prepare them to stand on their own two feet. This is exactly what we want for them. But, strangely, the desired outcome of their strength can leave us dazed and confused. The more they become their person with different opinions, desires, and influences, the more they stray from our expectations. Slowly, we can become resentful of our daughters. Eventually, an unfamiliar distance between your daughter and you begins to emerge. Navigating the distance is tricky. We’re often left walking a tightrope of two choices: holding on too tightly or being completely hands-off. Either can widen the gap. How do I know? I have navigated it myself. It’s a confusing and emotional season of life. Let me help you navigate it. There is a map. There is a way out of the confusion. I can show you the way.