After Isolation, We Reconnect – With a Taste of Israel
“If they can’t go to Israel, we’ll bring Israel to them!” said Momentum Founding Director Lori Palatnik – and with the launch of Momentum Retreats, that’s exactly what we did.
Dear Adrienne:
My only child, my daughter, turns 18 in a few days. I remember at a JWRP conference session you advised as to different roles parents should assume based on your child’s age. In the fall, she will go away to an out of state college. I have had difficulty letting go, but I’m trying to use this last year of high school as an opportunity for her to become as self-sufficient as possible. It’s been a challenge, but I’m learning to let her make her own decisions and live with the consequences. Do you have any advice for a mom who has difficulty letting go? I still have a way to go. Thanks.
Dear Friend:
You are in the ‘almost empty nest’ year; a time when we think we have our ‘last chance’ to impart our wisdom to our children! We feel like shaky bonds must be strengthened, and overly intense bonds loosened. We worry that the last year will not be sufficient and we worry that every argument and debate may be the ‘final taste in their mouths.’ But in reality, by the time our children are ready to go away from home, they are already pretty clear about our values and priorities. They know exactly what your hopes and dreams for them are because they see and hear everything and internalize both the direct and passive messages we send.
My message to you is that your role as a parent is FAR from over! It has been my experience that it is rarely the thing we worry about that comes to greet us, so fretting now does not prepare us for what we may need to face. We are now are in the consulting stage of life where we speak and offer opinions when asked and, instead, provide the safe place of unconditional love and trust that helps keep people grounded and secure. We only have ‘delusions’ of control at this point. Using money or guilt will not succeed in controlling your kid’s choices in any way. Often that pushes them further from us as they need to separate as much as we need them stay near.
Here are my top suggestions for maximizing the months ahead to teach your kids what matters most:
May your daughter launch smoothly and may you come to value this new season of your life and maximize it!
Our enriching Jewish series are made possible by individuals like you.
To sponsor more meaningful educational initiatives for Jewish women, please donate now.
“If they can’t go to Israel, we’ll bring Israel to them!” said Momentum Founding Director Lori Palatnik – and with the launch of Momentum Retreats, that’s exactly what we did.
The political tension in the air has spilled over into many of our homes. Even the Palatniks have had more than one “spirited” conversation around our dinner table.
A Momentum Community Leader who always found time to support others.
Mother to Mother Israel Unity Mission
May 13-19, 2024 | July 2-7, 2024
Join our leadership, alumnae, and our partner organizations in supporting our sisters and their families with love, strength, and taking action.
Unity Mission for Men
May 13-19, 2024
Momentum leadership, alumni and fathers of lone soldiers are embarking on this critical mission to support our fellow Israeli fathers, brothers, and their families, as we take action and bring them spiritual strength.
Apply to 2024 Fall Trips
For Jewish mothers with children age 18 and under
Participants only pay their acceptance fee and airfare
To participate in the Momentum Yearlong Journey, women must live in close proximity to a Partner Organization. See our partners list here. Please notify your Community Leader with any updates to your application
Apply to 2024 Fall Trips
Mainly for the husbands of Momentum sisters
$900 for Momentum husbands
Each man get a scholarship of $2,100-$2,400
Partner Organization contributes $700 per man
The Israeli Government does not contribute to the Men’s Trips
To participate, men must live in close proximity to a Partner Organization. See our partners list here. Please notify your Community Leader with any updates to your application
November 4-11, 2024
An exclusive, transformational, spiritual, and uplifting journey for women looking to invest in themselves and help us continue to build the Momentum movement.
Please note: This trip is not subsidized.