As I head into my last year homeschooling, I realize that I will be letting go of an identity I have had for the last thirteen years. “Homeschool Mom” is a title I’ve grown accustomed to having (and loved, by the way!)  It will always be a part of me. Yet, homeschooling will no longer be something I do. Who am I apart from homeschooling my man-cubs?

Hummingbird nest with one tiny egg

This would be an easy question if I didn’t attach significance and value to what I do. My thought often is: I’m doing something significant, therefore, I am significant. I’m doing something valuable so I must be valuable. The problem is that I am attaching significance and value to what I do instead of who I am. This is a slippery slope because let’s face it, I won’t always be able to “do”, will I? If I believe I am significant through doing, then my significance waxes and wanes according to my effort. Cue midlife crisis!

Proud (and aggressive) mama sitting on her nest

My significance must come from outside myself.  Where does my value/worth come from? Where does your value/worth come from? It comes from the simple fact that humans are made Imago Dei, in the image of God. Not only that but the God of the Universe desires to have relationship with me (not just me, but all humanity.) I am the Beloved. You are the Beloved. This is our true identity.

Sweet fluffy-headed baby hummer

Os Guinness said it this way: “We are not primarily called to do something or go somewhere; we are called to Someone.”  This brings me great comfort as I transition from homeschool mom to I-don’t-know-what-I’ll-be-when-I-grow-up. I’m secure in the knowledge that it matters not what I do, but that I am beloved and valued by God, just as I am. When insecurity, fear of insignificance or doubts come flooding in, I will remember that I let go of finding my significance in what I do (what a relief) and instead find my value in my identity as the Beloved.

Baby bird getting so big!

I’m blogging with a group of women all writing about “Letting Go.” Take a moment and scroll through beginning with Staci. Thank you.

Letting Go