Biblical Answer

Staying Engaged with Your Community as an Empty Nester

As an empty nester, you may be wondering how to stay engaged with your community. One way is to find community, specifically with people who are in the same season of life as you. This can be a small group, a Bible study, or a fellowship group. By connecting with others who understand what you are going through, you can find support and encouragement. As the authors of the provided text suggest, "communitypeople around you in the same season of life who get it and care, reinforcements" (p. 205).

Another way to stay engaged with your community is to be intentional about building relationships with your children's friends. As the authors note, "Make your home the place their friends want to hang out" (p. 205). This can be as simple as hosting a game night or movie night, or inviting their friends over for dinner. By being welcoming and inclusive, you can help your children build strong relationships with their friends, and also build relationships with their friends' parents. Additionally, you can consider volunteering to help with activities or events at your child's school or church, which can be a great way to connect with other parents and build relationships.

Finally, as an empty nester, you may have more time and freedom to pursue your own interests and hobbies. Consider using this time to serve others, whether through volunteering or serving in your community. This can be a great way to stay engaged with your community and make a positive impact. As the authors suggest, "serving the poor, or going to Bible study and fellowship groups, or attending worship" can be a great way to come into each other's worlds and build relationships (p. 174). By being intentional about building relationships and serving others, you can stay engaged with your community and build strong connections with others.