Celebrate Now, Cry Later

Life is full of chapters—some long, some fleeting, and some so meaningful they tug at your heart in both directions. As I watched my third daughter walk across the stage at her high school graduation, I felt the swell of pride I had waited years for. This moment was a celebration. But behind the smiles and camera clicks was a quiet ache: things are about to change.

It’s a strange emotional duality—joy for what they’ve accomplished, sorrow for the shift that’s coming. The house will feel a little quieter soon, and my role as a parent will stretch into something new. But here’s the thing: this chapter is worth celebrating. Right now. Fully. Loudly.

We all go through moments like this. A best friend moves across the country for a dream job. A business partner retires. A home you’ve lived in for years is sold. These moments carry both promise and pain—but they mark growth, not loss.

As I’m giving myself this pep talk, I hope it’s helping you too—if you find yourself in a similar moment of change. It’s okay to feel both things at once. But don’t let the sadness steal the joy of the moment. Let the confetti fly. Take the photos. Hug the people. Toast to the achievement.

There will be time for tears later—during the quiet moments, the goodbyes, the first night their room is empty. (oh, that one’s going to sting!) But don’t miss today.

Celebrate first. Cry later.

Because these moments are proof that life is moving forward, and that’s a beautiful thing.